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Bilal Erdogan, son of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and board member of organizations such as TURGEV and the Ilim Yayma Foundation, has publicly dismissed rumors about his potential candidacy for the presidency of Fenerbahce Sports Club. His comments on both Fenerbahce and rival Galatasaray also attracted attention.
“I honestly don’t know where these rumors come from. I have never considered a career in sports management. My focus remains on cultural identity and educational activities,” Bilal Erdogan said. He stressed that dedicating time to football management would detract from his important educational work. “If I spent time managing football, I would be neglecting duties I consider vital,” he added.
Addressing his family’s football loyalties, Erdogan noted, “I encourage my sons to support Fenerbahce. When I speak with students, many wear Galatasaray jerseys, which is easy for them, but I advise them to back Fenerbahce instead.”
The remarks came after Fenerbahce announced an extraordinary general assembly in September that will include elections, following increasing dissatisfaction with the current management after Galatasaray’s recent championship win.
Responding directly to questions about a presidential bid, Bilal Erdogan stated, “Fenerbahce is the team I support, as does our President. The club has a passionate fan base hungry for success. However, I am not running for president. I do hope to see better management, but sports leadership should be based on reason and genuine ambition, not just loyalty.”
So far, two candidates have officially announced their bids: Hakan Bilal Kutlualp and Mahmut Uslu, the latter closely linked to former president Aziz Yildirim. Meanwhile, speculation continues on social media.
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