Fenerbahce's Chairman Sentenced Amid Turkish Football Betting Scandal
A Turkish court has sentenced Fenerbahce chairman Sadettin Saran to two-and-a-half years in prison for inciting illegal betting, a significant ruling delivered just days before the club is scheduled to elect his successor. The Istanbul court found Saran and his brother, Kenan Saran, guilty of "inciting individuals to engage in illegal betting through advertising or various other means," resulting in both receiving sentences of two years and six months in jail. Despite the ruling, Saran consistently denied any wrongdoing during his court defense. Saran had previously announced his intention to step down from his position, with the club planning an extraordinary congress for June 6-7 to determine its new leadership. This development follows his earlier detention this year as part of a broader investigation into drug use among Turkish celebrities, from which he was later released. The sentencing arrives amidst extensive investigations by Turkish authorities into alleged match-fixing and illegal betting across the nation's professional football leagues. These probes have led to: The suspension of dozens of referees by the Turkish Football Federation. The detention or arrest of several commentators, officials, and players, including those from top-tier clubs. Fenerbahce's former chairman, Aziz Yildirim, has announced his candidacy to lead the club, challenging businessman Hakan Safi for the top role. The Istanbul giants are hoping that new leadership can help them end a 13-year championship drought. Saran is not seeking re-election.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-06-04