24.02.2026 14:37
Referee Arda Kardeşler, who was not assigned after the controversial decision in the Trabzonspor-Gaziantep FK match, has resigned; he will continue his career as a football agent.
Referee Arda Kardeşler, who has been the subject of long discussions due to his decision in the Trabzonspor-Gaziantep FK match, has officially ended his active refereeing career. It has been learned that Kardeşler will continue his career as a football player agent.
STRONG REACTION AFTER CONTROVERSIAL DECISION
The whistle that interrupted the fast attack of the Bordo-Mavililer during the match played in September 2025 drew great criticism. Despite acknowledging Kardeşler's mistake, Turkish Football Federation President İbrahim Hacıosmanoğlu stated live, "It is not a mistake, it is a planned action."
NO ASSIGNMENT, RESIGNED
According to HT Sports, Arda Kardeşler, who has not been assigned any duties since the mentioned match, submitted his resignation the other day and ended his active refereeing career. It was stated that Kardeşler, who is well acquainted with the football community, will work as a player agent.
"I CANNOT LIVE WITH THIS BURDEN"
In a statement he made after the controversial match, Kardeşler said, "The statement of the TFF President saying 'it is not a mistake, it is a planned action' was very hurtful for me. Yes, I made a mistake, but this was not my first mistake. The phrase 'planned action' targeted me. I do not want to live with this burden."