Multiple-time Turkish champions Istanbul's "Galatasaray" are being excluded from future UEFA tournaments for one year due to financial problems. The ban will take effect from next season, if "Galatasaray" secures a place in the Turkish football championship that would lead them to the Champions League or Europa League. It is reported that sanctions will be lifted if the Istanbul team fails to qualify for any of these tournaments in the next two seasons. In January, UEFA issued a statement stating that the financially troubled "Galatasaray" club had not adhered to financial regulations, prompting sports arbitration to consider punishment for the Turkish Super League club. "Galatasaray" tried for some time to rectify the situation and consulted on how to improve their financial situation. However, UEFA today made a final decision - the Istanbul club is disqualified. "Galatasaray" ranks fifth in the Turkish championship with 37 points, so it is very likely that they will fight for a spot in one of the UEFA tournaments.
