“Our Love for Atatürk Grows”: Fenerbahçe Holds Memorial Event on November 10

According to a statement from the club, the ceremony, organized for the fifth time aboard the Fenerbahçe Ferry on November 10, included the participation of Fenerbahçe High Council President Şekip Mosturoğlu, Vice President Erol Bilecik, Secretary-General Burak Çağlan Kızılhan, board members, high council members, congress members, athletes, technical teams, and staff.

Departing from Kadıköy‘s Eminönü/Karaköy City Lines Pier, the ferry, decorated with Turkish flags, Fenerbahçe flags, and a portrait of Atatürk, sailed toward Dolmabahçe Palace, where Atatürk passed away. During the ceremony, moments of silence were observed, and white and red carnations were placed into the water. The Turkish National Anthem was sung, followed by heartfelt messages written in the memorial book.

In his speech at the ceremony, High Council President Şekip Mosturoğlu stated, “The love for Atatürk grows ever stronger. Even in the early hours of the morning, so many people gathered here, with thousands joining in the moment of silence. We remembered our nation’s Leader, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, with respect, longing, and reverence. I hope and believe that a new generation is growing up, one that will steadfastly continue along the path he opened and the vision he set, with loyalty to his principles and reforms. The true genius of Atatürk and the significance of his principles and reforms are understood more each day. As long as we remain true to Atatürk’s principles, the Republic of Turkey will endure forever. We have no doubt of this.”

Vice President Erol Bilecik commented, “Eighty-six years have passed since we bid farewell to Atatürk. For 86 years, the entire Turkish nation, especially Fenerbahçe supporters, have expressed this respect and longing, whether by visiting Dolmabahçe, feeling it in their hearts, or shedding tears wherever they are. With immense pride, we feel and share with the world the memory of everything he did in establishing the Republic of Turkey for our people. May the soul of our leader rest in peace.”

Secretary-General Burak Çağlan Kızılhan emphasized that the ceremony has become a tradition for Fenerbahçe Club, saying, “Our vice president, board members, athletes, congress members, fans… Together, we visit Atatürk. Another November 10 has arrived, and we remember him with respect and longing. I sincerely wish that this tradition will continue forever. As long as we exist, we will keep the Republic, entrusted to us by Atatürk, alive forever.”