Osayi-Samuel found guilty by Turkish court over Trabzon incident

Bright Osayi-Samuel has been found guilty of assault by a Turkish court following his involvement in the violent pitch invasion after a league clash between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce in 2024.

The ruling was delivered by the Trabzon 3rd Criminal Court of First Instance, concluding a long-running legal process tied to the incident.

Court ruling and sanctions

Osayi-Samuel was convicted of what the court described as “simple assault” and fined 6,000 Turkish Lira (approximately €116). Former teammates Jayden Oosterwolde and Irfan Can Egribayat were also sanctioned, with Oosterwolde receiving two separate fines for multiple incidents.

However, the court ordered a five-year suspension of the verdict’s enforcement. Under Turkish law, this means the punishment will not be applied or recorded if no further offences are committed within that period.

Incident and aftermath

The case stems from chaotic scenes on March 17, 2024, when Trabzonspor supporters invaded the pitch at Papara Park after a 3-2 defeat.

Osayi-Samuel was seen striking a supporter during the confrontation, maintaining throughout proceedings that he acted in self-defence amid concerns for player safety.

Reports at the time indicated that some fans were carrying objects, escalating fears during the incident.

The issue became one of the most high-profile controversies in Turkish football that season, triggering both legal and disciplinary reviews.

Career moves on

Since the incident, Osayi-Samuel has left Fenerbahce and now plays for Birmingham City after returning to England in 2025.

Despite injury setbacks, he remains part of the squad and continues to feature for the Super Eagles, where he is valued for his versatility and defensive contributions.

The court’s decision effectively closes the legal chapter of the incident, allowing the player to move forward without immediate sanctions.