Football
Eren Sarigul, ESPN.com writer 7y

Basaksehir apologise after postmatch brawl with Turkish journalists

Istanbul Basaksehir president Goksel Gumusdag has apologised after an altercation between some of the club's players and a reporter ended up in a brawl.

Several Basaksehir players were caught on camera fighting with A Spor journalist Selman Kutlu and cameraman Ahmet Caglar Yildirim on Saturday following Basaksehir's 3-3 draw with Rizesepor in the Turkish Super League.

The incident was seemingly sparked by a Rizespor fan who insulted former Newcastle midfielder Emre Belozoglu near the team bus after the game and when the journalists tried to film the incident they were confronted by several Basaksehir players who attempted to stop them.

The incident quickly escalated with Turkey goalkeeper Volkan Babacan seen placing his hands on the neck of the journalist, while Ufuk Ceylan and defender Yalcin Ayhan were also involved.

A Spor have confirmed that they have reported the incident to the police, while Basaksehir president Gumusdag later released a statement. Rizespor have also condemned the attack.

"For me, the board members and our coach, having the spirit of being a 'college team' is more important than any sporting success," Gumusdag told reporters. "The unpleasant dispute between some of our players and our press members has deeply distressed me.

"I sincerely apologise to our press members who were affected by the event."

An investigation has been launched into the incident by the Public Prosecutor's Office in the Black Sea, with five Basaksehir players questioned.

The result could put a dent in the Istanbul based club's ambitions of playing UEFA Champions League football next season, as they sit second, four points behind league leaders Besiktas.

Basaksehir take on Fenerbahce in the league cup on Wednesday before hosting league leaders Besiktas next weekend.

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