The Turkish ambassador was called by the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the actions of Merih Demiral, a defender for the Turkish national football team. During a match against Austria in the European Championship, Demiral made a gesture associated with the “Grey Wolves,” which has caused concern and condemnation from German officials and human rights organizations.
UEFA has launched an investigation into Demiral’s actions, but it is unclear when it will be concluded. Nancy Feiser, Germany’s interior minister, and various human rights groups have expressed disapproval of the gesture made by the Turkish football player. Feiser specifically stated that symbols of Turkish right-wing extremists should not be present in stadiums and that using the European football championship as a platform for racism is unacceptable.
In response to Feiser’s statement, Germany’s ambassador to Turkey was summoned to the country’s Foreign Ministry. This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding symbols and gestures associated with political movements, especially in the context of international sporting events.