Four Major Clubs Lend Support to the TRNC Friendship Cup

The under-15 teams of Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş and Trabzonspor took the field in Nicosia for the TRNC Friendship Cup, held in solidarity against sports embargoes imposed on Turkish Cypriots. The events began with a procession march. The tournament was organized by the KTFF, the TRNC Prime Ministry and the Sports Department, with the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports also providing support.

A moment of silence was observed at the Lefkoşa Atatürk Stadium, and after the National Anthem was read, the matches got underway.

Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak criticized the GKRY for blocking an event that Barcelona's football team had planned to hold in the TRNC. Bak said that the arrival of four major clubs on the island sent an important message. He also announced that a modern stadium would be built in the TRNC.

TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel said that the world may impose embargoes on Turkish Cypriots, but Turkish Cypriots cannot be ignored. Recalling that Turkish Cypriot athletes have for years struggled with obstacles to take part in international competitions, Üstel said that the cancellation of the Barcelona Football Academy event had harmed Turkish Cypriot children.