Turkish Football Federation updates cup rules and issues disciplinary referrals

The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has introduced a new regulation for the 2026-2027 Ziraat Turkish Cup. This temporary measure allows Super Lig and 1. Lig clubs to include foreign players or national team-eligible players in their cup squads even if they cannot be registered on the primary A-team list. Under this rule, Super Lig teams may list up to 14 foreign players for cup matches, while 1. Lig teams are limited to 8 players on the list and a maximum of 6 on the pitch simultaneously. This regulation applies to players already under contract as of August 26, 2026.

Galatasaray has strongly criticized the decision, claiming it is not based on rules but on specific circumstances and individuals. The club argued the change acts as a ‘lifebuoy’ for a single club rather than protecting collective interests, warning it could turn Turkey into a ‘nursery’ for major European clubs.

Simultaneously, the TFF Legal Department has referred several clubs and officials to the Professional Football Disciplinary Board (PFDK). Referrals include Galatasaray, Beşiktaş, and Erzurumspor FK for issues such as improper chanting and stadium violations. Club presidents, including Serdal Adalı of Beşiktaş and Ertuğrul Doğan of Trabzonspor, have also been referred for statements deemed to damage the reputation of football.