As per latest reports. UEFA will investigate the actions of Midtjylland youngster Aral Simsir, who chanted pro-Palestine slogans during a 2024-25 UEL game
Şimşir faced allegations of making repeated strong anti-Semitic remarks during a UEFA Europa League match in October 2024, where Israeli champions Maccabi Tel Aviv played against FC Midtjylland.
FC Midtjylland’s Aral Simsir being investigated by UEFA for “Free Palestine” slogans vs Maccabi Tel Aviv
UEFA Opens Case Against Midtjylland’s Aral Simsir For Saying “Free Palestine” In A Game Against Israeli Club. You Will Never Guess What They’re Letting The Israeli Club Get Away With https://t.co/JJkJ8Gyb1l
— All Sports For Palestine (ASP) (@ASPofficial_) October 26, 2024
Throughout both halves of the game, it was reported that Şimşir could be heard shouting phrases such as “I hope you die,” “Free Palestine,” and “I hope Israel will burn down,” along with similar anti-Semitic chants directed at the Maccabi players.
UEFA has reportedly opened a case against Aral Şimşir, a forward for the Danish Superliga club Midtjylland, following allegations of him shouting political slogans during a Europa League match against Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Who is Aral Şimşir?
Şimşir, who was born to Turkish parents in Denmark, has a family background from the Sivas Province in Central Anatolia, which is reflected in his choice of the number 58 as his shirt number, representing the region’s registration number. He began his football journey in the youth teams of HB Køge before progressing to Midtjylland at the U15 level.
Why UEFA decided to investigate the actions of Şimşir?
The match, which occurred on October 3 at the neutral venue of Partizan Stadium in Belgrade, ended with a 2-0 victory for Midtjylland. The 22-year-old Turkish player reportedly started the game, provided an assist, and was substituted in the 59th minute. As reported by Ekstra Bladet, Şimşir allegedly shouted “Freedom for Palestine!” towards the Maccabi players, prompting formal complaints from representatives of the Israeli club regarding his conduct.
Şimşir, who came up through the Midtjylland youth system, has made an impression in the current 2024/2025 season, having played 11 matches in the Superliga, where he has scored three goals and provided three assists. Additionally, he has contributed two assists in three Europa League matches. His contract with the club extends until the end of June 2028, and his market value is estimated at 1.5 million euros, according to Transfermarkt.
UEFA have opened a disciplinary case against FC Midtjylland Turkish player Aral Simsir after he shouted “Free Palestine” during a game against Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The player was also attacked by the Maccabi squad in the tunnel after full-time. pic.twitter.com/xq63cNqxHk
— Leyla Hamed (@leylahamed) October 26, 2024