The Turkish Cup (Türkiye Kupası) is Turkey’s annual national football cup competition, organised by the Turkish Football Federation since 1962. Open to 164 clubs from across the country, it features knockout rounds and group stages, with the winner earning a place in European competition.
- Open to 164 clubs from all Turkish football tiers
- Winner qualifies for the UEFA Europa League play-off round
- Organised by the Turkish Football Federation since 1962
- Galatasaray holds the record with 19 cup wins
- Current champions are Trabzonspor
What it is
The Turkish Cup is the premier knockout football tournament in Turkey, bringing together clubs from the top four tiers and the Turkish Regional Amateur League. Organised by the Turkish Football Federation, it is a competition where underdogs can challenge giants, and every match carries the excitement of sudden elimination. The cup is a source of pride for clubs and their supporters, as lifting the trophy not only brings national recognition but also the honour of representing Turkey in European football. For many fans, the Turkish Cup is a celebration of the country’s footballing spirit, uniting communities and showcasing emerging talent.
Where it comes from
The Turkish Cup was first held in 1962, created by the Turkish Football Federation to provide a national cup competition alongside the league. Over the decades, it has seen various formats, from straightforward knockout rounds to the inclusion of group stages. Sponsorship has changed its official name at times, but its role as Turkey’s main cup competition has remained constant. The tournament has grown in size and prestige, now involving 164 clubs and offering a significant prize fund and a coveted place in European football for the winners.
How it is celebrated
Each season, the Turkish Cup unfolds over several rounds, beginning with knockout matches that welcome clubs from all levels of Turkish football. As the competition progresses, group stages and further knockouts lead to the semi-finals and the final, where the tension and excitement reach their peak. The final is a major event, with the winning team awarded the Turkish Cup trophy and medals, and the right to wear a roundel of the Turkish flag the following season. Fans fill stadiums and gather in homes and cafes to watch live broadcasts, supporting their teams with songs, banners, and passionate cheers. The cup’s open format means surprises are always possible, and smaller clubs can dream of giant-killing runs.
Joining in
Visitors can experience the Turkish Cup atmosphere in stadiums across Turkey, especially during the later rounds and the final, which draws fans from all over the country. Tickets for matches are available through clubs and the Turkish Football Federation, and games are also widely broadcast. Expect lively crowds, colourful displays of team spirit, and a welcoming football culture. The final is a highlight, often held in a major city and attracting national attention, making it an exciting event for any football enthusiast.
Sources and attribution
This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Turkish Cup, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.
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