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Turkey: 32 Arrested in Football Match-Fixing and Illegal Betting Probe

Published February 20, 2026, 09:10
Turkey: 32 Arrested in Football Match-Fixing and Illegal Betting Probe

Turkish authorities have arrested 32 individuals, including football club officials, as part of an investigation into alleged match-fixing and illegal betting in the country's professional football leagues. The detainees are accused of placing bets on matches involving their own teams, even betting on opposing teams in official matches. Police raids were conducted in 10 provinces, and efforts are underway to locate another suspect. The Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office stated that the arrests are part of a broader investigation to combat illegal betting and match-fixing in Turkish football. The Turkish Football Federation has already suspended 149 referees and assistant referees due to betting on matches. This case comes amid increased scrutiny of Turkish football, with authorities having already arrested or detained dozens of individuals, including club presidents, players, and commentators. The investigations are focused on the Super Lig, the top tier of Turkish football. This case is expected to have significant implications for Turkish football, as it raises questions about the integrity of matches and the credibility of the leagues. Authorities are committed to continuing the investigations and uncovering all those involved in the illegal betting and match-fixing network.