UEFA could punish Galatasaray after Palestine “Stop The Genocide” banner sparks controversy in Champions League

Abdul Hady
Abdul Hady is the editor of NutmegXtra, delivering daily Premier League, La Liga, and global football news with a sharp eye for breaking stories.

UEFA could take action against Galatasaray after their supporters displayed banners showing support for Palestine during their Champions League fixture.

The Turkish side resumed their European campaign on Wednesday, following last month’s 1-0 win over Liverpool secured by a Victor Osimhen penalty.

In that game, Galatasaray fans unfurled banners behind the goal, including messages such as “Humanity Lost Conscience in Gaza”, “#LetGazaBabiesLive”, “Palestinian Genocide” and “Free Palestine.”

Their supporters continued to express solidarity in their latest outing, unveiling a tifo that read “Stop The Genocide” alongside a large Palestine flag mosaic before kick-off.

Under Article 16(2)(e) of UEFA’s Disciplinary Regulations, clubs are liable if their supporters transmit provocative messages deemed political, ideological, religious, or offensive — through banners, flags, chants, or any similar display.

As a result, UEFA could sanction Galatasaray, with possible penalties including fines, partial stadium closures, or even a full stadium ban.

A “Free Palestine” banner was again visible during their 3-1 win over Bodo/Glimt in Istanbul.

Okan Buruk’s side have now secured back-to-back Champions League victories thanks to Osimhen’s first-half brace and a Yunus Akgun strike, before Andreas Helmersen pulled one back for the visitors.

Galatasaray continue their European journey on November 5, when they face Ajax in the Netherlands.