President of Turkish sports club Fenerbahçe Sadettin Saran, 61, responded to a positive drug test by stating that he has never used the substance alleged to have tested positive.
“I have never used the substance that is claimed to have tested positive, and I have not even seen it at close range in my life,” Türkiye Today cited Saran’s statement.
He described the allegations as a coordinated smear campaign intended to harm his reputation and the organizations he represents. He stated he is ready to provide new samples right away, and his lawyers will formally request reanalysis at the Forensic Medicine Institute. He also stated that additional tests will be done at independent, internationally accredited laboratories and the results will be disclosed.
On Dec. 20, Saran was summoned by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office to testify in the drug investigation, which involves other prominent Turkish figures, including media personalities and influencers, and he denied any use of illegal substances.
Following the two-hour testimony, Saran was referred to the Forensic Medicine Institute for blood, urine, nail and hair sample collection. While the investigation continues, the businessman was placed under a travel ban.
On Dec. 23, the forensic results were released: blood, urine and nail samples tested negative, while the hair sample tested positive.
A criminally proven case of drug use would make it impossible for Saran to retain his position. According to the club’s regulations, a criminal conviction automatically results in his removal as president.
Saran is a businessman with dual citizenship in Turkey and the U.S., and the owner of Saran Holding, a conglomerate operating in media, aviation and tourism. In September 2025, he became president of Fenerbahçe, winning the club’s election against then-incumbent Ali Koç.
Istanbul-based Fenerbahçe is one of Turkey’s most popular football clubs and a 19-time national champion. In the current Turkish Süper Lig season, the team sits in second place with 39 points over 17 matches, three points behind Galatasaray.
