Merih Demiral's actions will be investigated by UEFA, the German politician wants to take action

UEFA has opened an investigation into alleged misconduct by Turkish defender Merih Demiral.

The midfielder scored twice as Vincenzo Montella's side beat Austria 2-1 in the last 16 of Euro 2024 last night but his celebration after his second goal sparked controversy.

Demiral is accused of performing the 'wolf salute', an act associated with the extremist group Gray Wolves, who are linked to Turkey's ruling National Movement Party.

After the game in Leipzig, the 26-year-old said: “I had a goal celebration in mind, which I did.

“I'm very proud because I'm from Turkey, so after the goal I felt deep and wanted to do it, and I'm very happy to do it.”

He later posted a photo of himself doing this act on social media.

🇹🇷 Ne mutlu Türküm diyene! pic.twitter.com/4K3kVPFxgW

– Merih Demiral (@Merihdemiral) July 2, 2024

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser wants UEFA to take action. He tweeted a photo of Demiral and said: “Turkey's right-wing extremist symbols have no place on our platforms. Using the European Championship as a platform for racism is totally unacceptable.

“We expect UEFA to investigate this case and take measures.

“Our security authorities are keeping a close eye on Turkish extremists in Germany. The 'Grey Wolves' are being monitored by the Government's Office for the Protection of the Constitution.”

UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to look into the case.

Turkey will face the Netherlands on Saturday night in the last match of the quarter final.