ISTANBUL — Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen confronted Beşiktaş defender Emirhan Topçu during a heated Turkish Super Lig derby in Istanbul after the player allegedly made racist remarks toward him, according to multiple reports.
The confrontation, which occurred in the second half of Sunday’s 1–1 draw, saw Osimhen grab Topçu by the neck before teammates and officials intervened to separate them.
Both players received yellow cards as tempers flared on the pitch at Vodafone Park.Neither club nor the Turkish Football Federation has confirmed whether any racist language was used, but footage of the altercation quickly spread online, prompting calls from fans and anti-racism groups for an investigation.
Osimhen has not issued a public statement, though several of his teammates were seen consoling him after the match.
The incident has reignited discussion over racism in European football, with advocacy groups urging the league to take swift action if the allegations are proven.
Beşiktaş and Galatasaray have yet to comment officially on the matter.
