Gaziantep withdraw from Turkish league following earthquake

The Turkish FA (TFF) approved the withdrawal of two clubs from the Turkish Super Lig because of Monday's earthquake which badly hit the areas where Hatayspor and Gaziantep FK play. 

The organisation confirmed in a statement that it accepted the clubs' withdrawal from the league and their remaining matches will end in three points for their opponents. They will be allowed to compete in the top flight next season despite not playing this season. 

Turkish media say that as well as Hatayspor and Gaziantep FK in the top flight, Yeni Malatyaspor and Adanaspor in the second tier will not play any more games this season. 

In addition, all fixtures scheduled for this weekend have been postponed, the TFF said. 

The city of Antakya, where 14th placed Hatayspor play, was completely destroyed by the earthquake. Even though the stadium is still standing, it is being used to attend to victims of the quake. 

Ghanaian international Christian Atsu is still missing as is sporting director Taner Savut. 

Gaziantep, who were 10th in the league, was also badly affected as was the neighbouring province of Adiyaman. 

In Adana, where there has been 360 deaths out of a total of 24,600 in Turkey, top flight side Adana Demirspor are playing on. They are currently fifth. However, second tier side Adanaspor have withdrawn.

 

February 12, 2023