04.01.2025 10:01
Hull City requested fans not to bring the Turkish flag to the match against Leeds United. Regarding this controversial issue, Acun Ilıcalı stated, "Some hooligans are using our flag to provoke Leeds United fans by making a reference to this incident. Today's statement aims to prevent the use of our flag as a provocation against our country."
Hull City, competing in the England Championship League, called on its fans not to bring the Turkish flag to the stadium ahead of today's match against Leeds United.
After the statement made by Hull City, Acun Ilıcalı became a trending topic on social media. The ban on the Turkish flag at the stadium entrance before the Leeds United match drew significant backlash. While the reason for this decision remains a topic of curiosity, Acun Ilıcalı made a statement on the matter late at night. In his statement, Ilıcalı said, "Our fans have been bringing our flag to the stadium as a gesture since day one during Hull City matches, and this makes us proud.
However, since the tragic incident in 2000, where two Leeds fans lost their lives, some hooligans from other teams have been using our flag to provoke Leeds United fans by referencing this incident. Today's announcement aims to prevent the use of our flag as a provocation against our country.
Despite the same recommendation being made from the club's social media account last year, the intentions of those distorting the same announcement today are clear," he stated.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Chris Loftus and Kevin Speight were stabbed to death in Istanbul on April 5, 2000, one day before Leeds United's UEFA Cup semi-final match against Galatasaray. The incident occurred around 9:00 PM in Taksim Square. In the following days, four people were arrested and charged with murder, while the participation of Galatasaray fans in the return match was banned.