Celebrity chef Nusret Gökçe, famously known as Salt Bae, has expressed his determination never to repeat the incident where he joined Argentina’s World Cup celebrations on the pitch in Qatar.
Gökçe faced significant criticism after being seen on the playing surface at Lusail Stadium, awkwardly interacting with players, including Lionel Messi, following their thrilling penalty shoot-out victory over France in the final.
During the celebrations, Gökçe kissed and held the trophy, an honor typically reserved for heads of state, FIFA officials, and the winning team.
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As a result of the backlash, FIFA launched an investigation into the incident, along with the involvement of other individuals who gained “undue access” after the closing ceremony.
The details of any internal action taken have not been disclosed publicly.
Now, Salt Bae has spoken out about his actions and offered an explanation.
Speaking through an interpreter to The Times, he said, “It was a combination of my love for Argentina and my excitement. I love Argentina; I’ve lived there. I went to support them. Many of [the team] have come to the restaurant. I didn’t feel like a stranger. It was a special moment.”
Salt Bae emphasized that he had no intention of advertising and that he acted spontaneously.
He expressed regret for the attention he received, stating, “I never, ever wanted to overshadow anything.
I didn’t like the attention. I didn’t kick anyone, steal anything.”
The celebrity chef’s presence on the pitch drew criticism, including BBC TV presenter Gary Lineker referring to him as a “pest.”
Despite the controversy, Gökçe has not been deterred from attending other major football events.
He was present at the Champions League final in Turkey earlier in the month, where he refrained from engaging in similar antics as Manchester City celebrated their treble victory.
Since opening his first restaurant in Istanbul in 2010, Salt Bae’s Nusr-Et chain of luxury steak houses has expanded globally, with locations in Dubai, Greece, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Gökçe’s restaurants are frequented by various celebrities, including international footballers referenced in the interview.
The establishments are known for their exorbitantly expensive steaks, with the 24-carat gold-wrapped highly marbled wagyu tomahawk costing over £1,000 for a single steak.
Salt Bae’s passion for football and Argentina remains unwavering, but he has affirmed his commitment to never trespassing on a World Cup pitch again.
Despite the controversy, his presence at sporting events continues to draw attention, alongside his culinary success that has taken his restaurant empire to new heights.
