Armenian National Team Fan in Jail for Three Weeks Following Turkish Football Fan's Allegations

Yervand Ismailyan, a fan of the Armenian national football team, has been in a Finnish prison for three weeks. An incident occurred during the Euro 2020 qualifying match between Finland and Armenia (0:3) held on October 15 in the city of Turku, after which a member of the official fan club of the Armenian national team, FAF, was detained and remains there.

In an interview with Haykakan Zhamanak, FAF founder-member Serosh Jangoyan provided details about the incident. He noted that the Football Federation of Finland organized the match in a small stadium, and due to high demand for tickets, Finnish fans were seated close to Armenian fans, separated only by a ribbon. Normally, it is customary for fans of opposing teams to be seated apart to prevent incidents.

After the first goal, a conflict broke out. “When the goal was scored, there was a provocation, resulting in a scuffle,” said Jangoyan. “There were Turkish fans who displayed signs indicating hanging and cutting off heads with scarves.” He also added that Ismailyan took the bait and threw a firecracker, “a New Year's 'bomb,' a 100-dram firecracker,” according to Jangoyan.

Following the incident, the Turkish fan filed a complaint, claiming that the Armenians came prepared to cause harm. Ismailyan has been provided with a public defender who does not speak English. Jangoyan mentioned that the defender promised that the trial would take place soon and that Ismailyan would be released, but the situation remains uncertain.

There is no Armenian consulate in Finland, so no one has been able to visit Ismailyan, and during this time, he has not had any contact with other Armenians. One Armenian fan present is trying to help within his means, but he has also not met with Ismailyan. Nevertheless, Ismailyan managed to make contact 4-5 days ago and informed that he is feeling well.

The Football Federation of Armenia, UEFA, and FIFA cannot intervene in this matter; it is beyond their jurisdiction.