The streets of Berlin and other major German cities have come alive with vibrant celebrations as Germany’s large Turkish community warmly welcomes the Turkish national football team. The team is set to play a crucial Euro 2024 match against Italy. This unique display of solidarity highlights the deep-rooted cultural and familial ties between the Turkish diaspora in Germany and their ancestral homeland.
A Proud Community Unites
With over three million people of Turkish descent living in Germany, neighborhoods such as Kreuzberg in Berlin and Ehrenfeld in Cologne have been decorated with red and white Turkish flags. Shops, cafes, and homes display banners and posters, creating a festive atmosphere that bridges the distance between the two countries.
Ertan Karakaya, a 32-year-old restaurant owner in Berlin, expressed the community’s excitement:
“It’s a special feeling to see Türkiye playing here in Germany. We feel like we’re hosting our own team, and we want to show our support in every way we can.”
Festive Public Viewing Events
Public viewing events have been organized in several cities to allow fans to gather and watch the matches together. In Berlin’s Tempelhof Park, thousands are expected to attend a large outdoor screening, complete with Turkish food stalls, music, and entertainment. Similar events are happening in Frankfurt, Munich, and Hamburg. These gatherings have turned the tournament into a vibrant celebration of Turkish culture.
Official Praise and Team Appreciation
Turkey’s Consul General in Munich, Mehmet Günay, praised the community’s enthusiasm:
“The support from our compatriots in Germany is incredible. It shows the strength of the bond between the two countries and the pride of the Turkish diaspora in their heritage.”
The Turkish team has expressed gratitude for the passionate support. Coach Stefan Kuntz, a German national coaching Türkiye, said:
“Playing in Germany feels like playing at home thanks to the fantastic support from the Turkish community here. It’s a great morale booster for the team.”
Multicultural Harmony and Integration
The Turkish community’s celebrations have caught the attention of local German residents, many of whom have joined in. This reflects Germany’s multicultural fabric and highlights positive cultural integration and mutual respect.
Germany’s public broadcaster ARD covered the community’s preparations and festivities. ARD journalist Markus Schmidt commented:
“It’s wonderful to see how sports can unite people and cultures. The Turkish community’s support adds a special dimension to the tournament.”
Looking Ahead to the Italy Match
As Türkiye prepares for its important match against Italy, the Turkish community in Germany continues to rally behind their team with unwavering passion. Regardless of the outcome, this unity stands as a testament to the enduring ties between Germany and Türkiye and demonstrates the power of football to bring people together.
