With the opening of a regional office in Istanbul, EFA is extending its reach globally and becoming the third abroad hub for the confederation after London and Brussels. After months of talks led by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), the new UEFA Istanbul office, housed in the historic Levent Mansion, will formally open for business in April.
Istanbul is now one of the world football decision-making capitals, bridging continents and cultures. This move highlights the city’s symbolic importance as well as its track record of hosting important international competitions. Along with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, executive committee members, and federation presidents from all UEFA member countries, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will be the main guest at the ceremonial ribbon-cutting event on Thursday.
On Wednesday, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, as well as the anniversary of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, a gala dinner will be held at the opulent Çırağan Palace Kempinski in advance of the opening. A high-profile evening of celebration and diplomacy, the event will bring together Turkish football leaders and UEFA executives.
The rising star of Istanbul
It is not surprising that the city was elevated to the status of UEFA headquarters territory. The 2005 UEFA Champions League final, the 2009 UEFA Cup final, the 2019 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final have all already taken place in Istanbul. The 2026 UEFA Europa League final in Istanbul and the 2027 UEFA Conference League final in Istanbul or Ankara.
As Turkey gets ready to co-host the 2032 UEFA European Championship alongside Italy—a historic competition that is expected to further solidify the nation’s position in the top division of European football—the Istanbul office will also play a crucial coordination role.
Istanbul’s next move
In addition to recognizing Istanbul’s logistical prowess and love of football, UEFA’s move further integrates the city into football diplomacy. This office is anticipated to improve tournament coordination, strengthen Turkey’s position in European football, and draw more international events with the TFF’s ongoing support.
Source: Daily Sabah
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