Fenerbahçe Pledges to Support the Children of Veteran Who Died at Derby

The 48-year-old veteran Gerçek Yaşar had traveled to Istanbul with his son Gazi to watch the Fenerbahçe-Beşiktaş derby in Kadıköy. During the second half of the match, he suddenly fell ill in the stands. After initial treatment from medical staff, he was rushed to hospital by ambulance, where doctors determined he had suffered a heart attack. Despite all efforts, he could not be saved. According to reports, the father and son had eagerly anticipated the match, as Gerçek Yaşar had made a special effort to buy tickets to bring his son to a stadium for the first time in his life.

Yaşar, who was from the Mut district of Mersin, was brought back to his hometown, where funeral prayers were held at Laal Paşa Mosque before he was laid to rest. Fenerbahçe board member Barış Karagöz attended the funeral to share in the family's grief. Speaking to journalists afterward, Karagöz said the story of Gerçek Yaşar had deeply moved the entire club community.

Karagöz recalled that father and son had reached the stadium after a long journey, noting that the father had wanted to experience this special moment of joy with his son for the first time. He explained that Yaşar suddenly fell ill in the stands and could not be revived despite all medical intervention. Karagöz emphasized how deeply touched he was by the dedication fans show toward the club.

Speaking on behalf of the Fenerbahçe management, Barış Karagöz announced that they would act as older brothers and uncles to the late Gerçek Yaşar's children, his son Gazi and daughter Zeren. Karagöz offered condolences to the grieving family and prayed for Yaşar's soul. The announcement was seen as a reflection of the club's close bond with its supporters.