Turkey defender Merih Demiral is beneath investigation by Uefa after showing to make an ultra-nationalist salute throughout his nation’s victory in opposition to Austria.
Demiral, 26, scored twice as Turkey booked their place within the Euro 2024 quarter-finals to face Netherlands with a 2-1 win in opposition to Austria.
The Al-Ahli defender celebrated his second objective with a ‘wolf salute’, a gesture related to the far-right extremist group Gray Wolves which are linked with Turkey’s ruling coalition get together the Nationwide Motion Celebration.
Demiral mentioned the salute, which is banned in Austria and France, was pre-planned in case he scored.
“I had a objective celebration in thoughts, which I did,” mentioned Demiral.
“I’m very proud as a result of I’m a Turk, due to this fact after the objective I felt it deeply and I needed to do it, and I’m very completely satisfied about doing it.”
Demiral posted a photograph of the celebration on his X account with the caption: “How completely satisfied is the one who says I’m a Turk!”
Uefa’s investigation has been opened in accordance with Article 31(4) in relation to the “alleged inappropriate behaviour” of Demiral.
If discovered responsible, Demiral could possibly be fined or face a suspension as Turkey put together to tackle Netherlands in Saturday’s quarter-final at 8pm BST.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham is beneath investigation for a gesture he made through the last-16 win in opposition to Slovakia on Sunday.
Bellingham was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture in the direction of the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.