Istanbul, Turkey. Turkish social media users voiced anger after images circulated appearing to show SC Freiburg supporters urinating near a monument dedicated to Mustafa Kemal Ataturk ahead of the Europa League final. The incident was reported to have taken place as travelling fans gathered in the city.
Images spark outrage and calls for identification
Photos and videos shared widely online prompted condemnation from Turkish users, many of whom described the act as disrespectful toward the founder of modern Turkey. Some posts called on authorities to identify those involved before they left the country.
Reactions from German supporters
German fans on social media also criticised the behaviour, with several Freiburg supporters describing those responsible as “idiots” and distancing the club’s fanbase from the incident. Some commenters apologised to Turkish people over the images.
Dispute over authenticity and context
Online debate also focused on the authenticity and context of some images, with users claiming at least one edited version had removed visible parts of the monument.
Background and match result
The controversy came amid heightened sensitivity in Turkey around symbols and memorials linked to Ataturk. About 11,000 Freiburg supporters travelled to Istanbul for the final, according to German media reports, and the city hosted large gatherings of German and English fans before kickoff.
Aston Villa won 3-0 to secure their first major European trophy in 44 years.
What steps should authorities take when alleged misconduct by visiting fans goes viral online?