Turkish state broadcaster TRT removes veteran commentator Murat Ekrem Çimen from its remaining World Cup coverage after a widely reported on-air mix-up during the Group G match between Iran and New Zealand in Los Angeles. Multiple outlets say the commentator began the broadcast with the two teams incorrectly identified, effectively confusing Iran and New Zealand for viewers before later realizing the mistake and correcting himself.
Reports describe the incident as an “unacceptable” error, with TRT issuing a public apology and conducting an internal review. One source says the suspension lasts for the rest of the tournament while TRT determines the outcome of its investigation, though it is not clear from all accounts whether the removal is temporary or permanent. Other details vary by outlet, but the core points are consistent: the error occurred during Monday’s Iran–New Zealand game, it was addressed publicly, and TRT acted against the commentator for the remainder of its broadcasts. Colleagues reportedly expressed support, according to one report, but TRT still removes him from future matches pending review.
