Mourinho takes Turkey to European human rights court over freedom of expression claim

Football manager Jose Mourinho is taking Turkey to the European Court of Human Rights, alleging violations of his freedom of expression. The 63-year-old coach claims his rights were infringed upon while he was managing the Turkish team Fenerbahçe.

Mourinho lodged the complaint in March 2025, challenging sanctions imposed by the Turkish Football Federation in late 2024. The federation cited "unsportsmanlike statements and behavior" directed at opposing fans and referees during a league match. The disciplinary committee suspended the Portuguese coach for one game and levied a fine of roughly 18,000 euros.

The European Court of Human Rights stated in a May 13 announcement that the applicant contends a "tribunal" did not rule on the dispute impartially. The court has deemed Mourinho's case admissible and sent a series of questions to Turkish authorities.

Mourinho joined Fenerbahçe in Istanbul in June 2024 but was dismissed in August 2025. He is currently coaching Benfica and is considered a prominent candidate for the head coach position at Spain's Real Madrid.

“

The applicant claims that the dispute in question was not decided by an independent and impartial tribunal.