The Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), within the framework of Law No. 6112 on the Establishment of Radio and Television Enterprises and Their Media Services, has reviewed the report and its annexes submitted by the Department of Monitoring and Evaluation regarding current practices in sports broadcasting. Following this evaluation, the Council has adopted new Principle Decisions aimed at strengthening impartiality, fair representation, and compliance with universal sporting values.

RTÜK’s objective is to ensure that stadium and field visuals are broadcast impartially, that commentators and announcers refrain from biased commentary in favor of specific teams or supporters, and that broadcasts do not incite violence or fanaticism. The goal is to provide a positive and exemplary sports experience, particularly for young viewers, while ensuring neutrality in sports and providing a safe, constructive viewing environment.

Evaluations revealed that in certain broadcasts, stadium banners were persistently displayed and commented upon, biased expressions were used in favor of specific teams and fans, and visuals of profane chanting or individuals smoking were reflected on screen. Furthermore, it was observed that altercations on the pitch and in the stands were broadcast for extended durations, and advertisements promoting online/virtual betting or products encouraging excessive consumption were featured. These practices were deemed contrary to the principles of equality in sports and broadcasting ethics.

The following Principle Decisions have been established as binding for all Radio, Television, and On-Demand Media Service Providers regarding sports coverage:

1. Universal Values and Ethical Discourse: A peaceful and non-violent language, respecting the spirit and nature of sports and universal values, shall be employed to foster a positive athletic atmosphere.

2. Public Order and Visual Integrity: Banners or placards displayed on the sidelines or in the stands that undermine public order or social peace, contain discriminatory elements, or target a specific team or its supporters shall not be broadcast.

3. Impartiality and Prevention of Fanaticism: During domestic friendly and league matches, no biased commentary or statements inciting fanaticism shall be made regarding any team, technical staff, management, fan groups, or referees.

4. Advertising Restrictions During Live Coverage: During live sports broadcasts, no advertisements of any kind—including overlay/banner advertisements—shall be permitted, except during official breaks and intervals.

5. Prohibition of Online Betting Promotion: Advertisements encouraging online/virtual betting shall not be broadcast during live sports coverage; all necessary technological measures must be implemented to prevent such exposure.

6. Restricted Product Categories: Advertisements for products whose excessive consumption is not recommended shall be prohibited, and no promotional expressions encouraging the use of such goods and services shall be utilized.

7. Protection of Public Decency and Health: Visuals or audio of profane chanting and images of individuals smoking tobacco products shall not be transmitted to the screen.

8. Management of Altercations and Pitch Invasions: Altercations occurring on the field or in the stands shall not be broadcast for extended durations; furthermore, visuals of unauthorized individuals entering the pitch to engage in protests or disruptive actions shall not be displayed.

These Principle Decisions shall be announced to broadcasters via the official website of RTÜK. The decision was adopted unanimously by the Supreme Council.