Selahattin Baki Slams Eray Yazgan: “Filed a Lawsuit but Didn’t Show Up!”

Speaking to Habertürk about his statement, Baki said:

“I wish we didn’t have to talk about such an issue. In the century-old Fenerbahçe – Galatasaray rivalry, there have been tense and challenging derbies. In the chaotic atmosphere of that night, we simply wanted to celebrate a well-earned victory with our fans, especially after going down to 10 men. However, we faced resistance. Some unfortunate incidents and disputes took place.”

“Considering the circumstances and the number of people present, I didn’t think there were any truly severe incidents. During this time, I saw 4-5 people aggressively pointing their fingers at our president. I want to emphasize something very important: I realized that a key part of my testimony, which I had repeated twice, was not recorded in the transcript. This is crucial—I don’t want any details to be missed. I did not deny anything. Since gestures and insults were directed at us, I responded with insults as well. I do not deny this either. The insults I used were directed at a small group of 4-5 individuals whose body language and gestures suggested they were making a move toward our president. That is the entire incident.”

“I KNEW HIM BY NAME”

“I knew who Eray Yazgan was by name, as he is Galatasaray‘s general secretary. However, since he is not a media-facing board member—such as a press spokesperson or football department official—I did not recognize his face. I stated this. I only became familiar with his appearance after the derby incident, due to the allegations of a black-market ticket scandal involving him, which some tried to cover up. I mentioned this twice, but it was not recorded in the transcript. That is the first important detail.”

“I NEVER SAID I WAS REGRETFUL”

“I have received a few messages claiming that I said I was regretful. I never made such a statement. I wish this incident had never happened, but since it did, I can say this: Today, yesterday, and tomorrow—if anyone uses insults and threatening gestures towards a Fenerbahçe president, board member, or fan, I will respond in the same manner.”

“What is truly disappointing is that Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray have seen far more intense and serious incidents in the past. However, people who truly understand the culture, the streets, the stands, and the passion of football never took such matters to court. I genuinely feel ashamed that we stood before the state over an issue of insults, wasting the government’s time.”

“THE CHEEK-PETTING BLACK MARKET ASSOCIATION”

“He (Eray Yazgan) did not attend today, citing an excuse. I wish he had come. I hope it is not due to health reasons—if it is, I will not comment. I left my work abroad and came to court today because the state summoned me. I gave my statement, and frankly, I was embarrassed to stand trial over something so trivial. I have some advice for him: he holds no significance for me—I neither know him nor care. But since he took this matter personally, he might as well start an association called the ‘Cheek-Petting Black Marketeers Association’ and serve as its general secretary for the rest of his life. If he finds the football world, the football ecosystem, and the Fenerbahçe – Galatasaray derby climate too harsh and barbaric…”

“I waited for him today, but he did not show up. I would have liked to discuss this issue with him. It’s the usual tactic—file a lawsuit and then don’t show up. I sincerely hope it is not due to health reasons.”

WHAT DID HE SAY IN COURT?

According to Anadolu Agency, Selahattin Baki made the following statement in court:

“After the Galatasaray supporters left the stadium, we took to the field to celebrate as a team. Later, while heading towards the tunnel leading to the locker rooms, I saw blood on the president’s hand, likely from the scuffle that had taken place. At that moment, I saw and heard four Galatasaray members—including Eray Yazgan—pointing fingers at our president while hurling insults. In response, I told them not to make hand gestures towards our president and used profane language.”