Aykut Demir refuses to wear ‘No To War’ Ukraine t-shirt, explains why

Turkish footballer, Aykut Demir, refused to wear a shirt that reads 'No War' in solidarity with Ukraine ahead of the duel in the Turkish League Second Division between Erzurumspor and Ankaragucu at the weekend. 

Before the match started, the players from both teams were wearing T-shirts that read 'Savasa Hayir No War'. This is a form of solidarity action against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

However, Demir decided not to wear the shirt. The 33-year-old then explained getting a lot of criticism and threatened sanctions from the club.

"Thousands of people die every day in the Middle East. I also feel sad. I share my pain with innocent people", he told Football Anatolia, as reported by Fanatik.

"Those who ignore the persecution there (Middle East) do these things when it comes to Europe. I don't like wearing T-shirts because they are not made for those countries", he continued.

Actions of solidarity for Ukraine have occurred since Russia launched its invasion. Several clubs in Europe showed their support for Ukrainians with shirts voicing their rejection of war. This is routinely done before the game starts.

FIFA and UEFA announced on Monday, that the Russian National Team and clubs from the Red Bear Country have been suspended from all competitions they play in. This sanction is valid until further notice.