A female referee, Elif Karaarslan, 24, has received a lifetime ban from Turkey’s Football Federation (TFF) after being allegedly involved in a s*x tape with Orhan Erdemir, a 61-year-old referees’ observer.
Elif, who began her refereeing career after an injury ended her time as a player, denies being featured in the leaked footage and plans to appeal the ban.
She expressed her determination, stating, “I know I have a long legal battle ahead, but I will face it with strength. I appreciate your support during this time.” Elif emphasized that she will not be defeated by sadness or despair and hopes to advocate for those similarly affected.
Before becoming a referee, Elif played for Beşiktaş. Erdemir, who was a FIFA referee from 1999 to 2002 and later an observer, also faces a ban.
He claimed the video was shared without his consent and lamented the damage to his reputation and emotional well-being, stating, “My honor within my family and community has been shattered. The emotional toll and financial losses are overwhelming.”
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