Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic has been appointed to oversee the highly anticipated Istanbul derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, Turkey’s title rivals.
The 45-year-old’s selection by the Turkish Football Federation comes after a joint request from both clubs, as reported by ESPN.
Vincic, who officiated last season’s Champions League final, has been chosen amidst ongoing controversies in Turkish football over the past 18 months.
Notable incidents include Adana Demirspor walking off the pitch earlier this month in protest of a penalty decision against them during a match with Galatasaray.
Additionally, the league faced suspension in December 2023 following an assault on a referee by MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca after a late equalizer was conceded by his team.
Ahead of Monday’s top-of-the-table clash (17:00 GMT), Fenerbahce trail league leaders Galatasaray by six points in the Super Lig standings.
Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho has expressed support for Vincic’s appointment, describing the decision as a positive step in what he previously called a “toxic” football environment.
“I think it’s important for the credibility, for the image of the match,” Mourinho said.
“If it is a top referee, and it’s a top European referee, I am happy with that because I love to win like everybody else but I am a person that needs fair play.”