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Fenerbahce president Ali Koc has dismissed growing calls for his resignation, stating he does not believe stepping down is the right course of action at this time. Speaking to TRT Spor on May 7, Koc responded to a fan-led signature campaign calling for his departure by saying, “I do not find resigning appropriate. The petition campaign is a democratic right, and I respect that.”
Koc firmly stated that there are no plans for an early election, indicating that he and his board remain aligned on continuing their current mandate. "We are exactly where we were when we spoke at the High Council. There is no shame in what we’ve done—we’ve built on the vision set by former president Aziz Yildirim," he said.
Highlighting the club’s efforts this season, Koc emphasized the scale of Fenerbahce’s investments. “We assembled the highest-budget squad in our history and signed one of the best managers in world football—Jose Mourinho. Players everyone said ‘would never come’ joined Fenerbahce. That did not happen by accident.”
Acknowledging growing discontent among fans, especially following poor performances in key derbies, Koc said, “The anger of our fans is understandable. Expectations are high, and we haven’t met them. But the passion of this club is what drives us.”
Reflecting on generational differences in fandom, Koc remarked: “My generation grew up with the idea of supporting a club for life, no matter the outcome. Today’s fans are different—more vocal, more critical. We need to understand that shift.”
Koc also pointed to what he believes is an uneven playing field in Turkish football. “If we did even one-tenth of what our rivals do, we’d be in court right now. We’re fighting not just teams, but a system—a structure that resists change. We are the only club openly battling against illegal betting and unethical sponsorship deals.”
Criticizing fans who jeer players mid-game, Koc urged supporters to focus their energy on lifting the team. “Even in friendly matches like the one against Zenit, fans were chanting for resignations. That kind of pressure impacts the players. Our tribunes never used to be like this.”
Despite mounting pressure, Koc stood by his record. “When we took over, Fenerbahce was listed by UEFA as one of the clubs closest to bankruptcy. Today, we are financially and institutionally stable. If the community wants to part ways with us in a humiliating way, then so be it. That too, is fate.”
In a lighter moment, Koc shared his views on European football: “I studied in England and supported Arsenal. But PSG President Nasser is a close friend. So, I’m torn—but if PSG wins, I’ll be happy for him.”
4 min read
