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Metehan Baltaci, a defender for Galatasaray, has been released pending trial in a case related to alleged betting and match-fixing activities, after previously being arrested as part of a wider investigation into football betting.
The decision was issued by the Istanbul 3rd Criminal Court of First Instance during the first hearing of the case. The court ruled in favor of Baltaci’s release, citing the length of time already spent in pre-trial detention. Proceedings were adjourned until June 12 to allow for the completion of outstanding matters.
Baltaci appeared in court alongside his legal representatives, while several figures from the Galatasaray organization, including head coach Okan Buruk, attended the hearing in support.
In his defense, Baltaci rejected all allegations, stating that he did not attempt to influence match outcomes. He told the court that in 2021, he was a member of the club’s U19 squad and not part of the senior team, emphasizing that he had no interaction with first-team players at the time.
He acknowledged placing bets through a licensed platform but maintained that he did not profit from them. Baltaci further denied engaging in any match-fixing arrangements or fraudulent conduct, adding that he was unaware that such betting activity could constitute a criminal offense.
Sukru Hanedar, who previously served in a senior administrative role at Galatasaray, testified that the U19 and senior teams operate independently, with separate facilities and limited interaction, supporting Baltaci’s claim that he had no access to first-team tactical information during the period in question.
According to the indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, Baltaci faces charges of match-fixing and incentive payments as well as attempted fraud through the use of information systems. Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence ranging from four to 13 years.
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