The unifying power of sport in the 103rd year of the Republic

The sports community in Turkey celebrated the 103rd anniversary of the Republic on Thursday. Football clubs, sports federations and athletes commemorated the founding leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. Races, cycling events, sailing competitions and commemorative tours were held across the country.

Statements from major clubs and sporting events throughout the country highlighted the legacy of the Republic and the role of sport in bringing people together. Republic Day marks the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on 29 October 1923, after the War of Independence led by Atatürk. The beginning of the national struggle is commemorated by Atatürk's landing in Samsun on 19 May 1919, and this date is celebrated as Youth and Sports Day.

The Turkish Football Federation published a message of respect for Atatürk, the founders of the Republic and those who fought for independence. The federation drew attention to the unifying power of football and stressed its responsibility to protect the values of the Republic.

Beşiktaş President Serdal Adalı recalled Atatürk's landing in Samsun and the proclamation of the Republic. Quoting the words "Freedom and independence are my character," Adalı said the club would continue to follow the principles and reforms of Atatürk. Beşiktaş described the Republic as a valuable legacy that must be passed on to future generations.

Fenerbahçe made a direct link between its own history and the national independence movement. The club said it carries this responsibility through its athletes, its achievements and its duty to represent Turkey. Galatasaray remembered Atatürk, his comrades in arms, the martyrs who gave their lives for the homeland, and the veterans of the independence struggle.