Jose Mourinho’s Four-Game Ban Reduced After Club’s Appeal Review

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has reduced Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho’s suspension from four matches following an assessment of the club’s appeal.

Mourinho faced a fine and suspension due to his criticisms of Turkish referees after a match against rivals Galatasaray, where he expressed his displeasure with the officiating during a press conference after the 0-0 draw in the Super Lig on Monday.

Initially, the TFF imposed a fine of 1.6 million Turkish lira (approximately $43,963.89), which has now been lowered to 558,500 lira.

The sanctions stemmed from “derogatory and offensive remarks aimed at the Turkish referee” and claims of turmoil within Turkish football, as stated by the TFF.

The TFF asserted that Mourinho’s comments breached sporting ethics, encouraged violence and disorder, and had the potential to provoke incidents among fans.

The match on Monday was officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, following a mutual request from both clubs for a foreign referee to oversee the game.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Fenerbahce defended Mourinho, contending that his remarks were misrepresented and taken out of context.

Having previously managed top clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur, Mourinho has faced fines and suspensions in the past for his commentary on Turkish match officials.

Additionally, on Friday, Fenerbahce announced that Mourinho has filed a lawsuit against Galatasaray after they accused him of making racist comments.

Mourinho is set to return for Fenerbahce’s Super Lig clash against Samsunspor on March 16.

Currently, Fenerbahce sits second in the Super Lig, trailing their Istanbul rivals Galatasaray by six points.