Fenerbahce has reportedly submitted a petition to the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) seeking to prevent Victor Osimhen from participating in the upcoming Istanbul derby against Galatasaray. The match, scheduled for Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Rams Park, is a potential title-deciding encounter in the Turkish Super League.
Fenerbahce's Petition Against Osimhen
According to HT Spor, Fenerbahce's petition alleges that the components of Osimhen's protective mask pose a danger to opposing players. The club's medical team is preparing a report on materials permissible under IFAB rules. Journalist Ezra Kose stated, "There is a belief that the hard protective equipment Victor Osimhen uses in matches poses a risk to opposing players. The yellow-blue club is preparing to officially apply to the Turkish Football Federation to bring this issue to their attention."
If the petition succeeds, it would be a significant setback for Galatasaray, which has worked diligently to have the striker fit for the derby. Osimhen fractured his arm during Galatasaray's 4-0 loss to Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 at Anfield on March 18, 2026. He underwent surgery and was expected to return for the derby.
Osimhen's Recovery and Return
Galatasaray aimed to fast-track Osimhen's return for the league match against Genclerbirligi, but he was initially dropped from the squad due to fatigue. He eventually made a brief appearance in the Ziraat Turkish Cup quarter-final against the same opponent, playing 18 minutes as Galatasaray lost 2-0 and was eliminated. Coach Okan Buruk confirmed after the match that Osimhen is expected to make a full return, though some Turkish reports suggested he might start on the bench.
The derby is crucial for Galatasaray, which leads Fenerbahce by four points with four matches remaining. A win or draw would put them on track for a fourth consecutive league title.
Okan Buruk's Reaction
Following the Turkish Cup elimination, Buruk acknowledged his team's subpar performance but emphasized the need to focus on the derby. "We were second best, but we will quickly dust ourselves off and focus on the crucial derby against Fenerbahce," he said.
The Istanbul derby promises high stakes as both teams vie for supremacy in the Turkish Super League.
