Turkey defender Merih Demiral, 26, is under investigation by UEFA after appearing to make an ultra-nationalist salute during his country’s victory against Austria.

Demiral scored twice as Turkey secured their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a 2-1 win against Austria, setting up a match against the Netherlands.

The Al-Ahli defender celebrated his second goal with a ‘wolf salute,’ a gesture associated with the far-right extremist group Grey Wolves, which is linked to Turkey’s ruling coalition party, the National Movement Party.

Demiral stated that the salute, which is banned in Austria and France, was pre-planned in case he scored. “I had a goal celebration in mind, which I did,” said Demiral. “I am very proud because I am a Turk; therefore, after the goal, I felt it deeply and wanted to do it. I am very happy about doing it.”

Demiral also posted a photo of the celebration on his X account with the caption: “How happy is the one who says I am a Turk!”

UEFA’s investigation has been opened in accordance with Article 31(4) concerning Demiral’s “alleged inappropriate behaviour.” If found guilty, Demiral could be fined or face a suspension as Turkey prepares to take on the Netherlands in Saturday’s quarter-final.

In a related incident, England midfielder Jude Bellingham is also under investigation for a gesture he made during the last-16 win against Slovakia on Sunday. Bellingham was seen making a crotch-grabbing gesture towards the Slovakian bench after scoring an overhead kick in stoppage time.

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