Turkey will donate ticket revenue to Gaza aid campaign – Inside World Football

October 14 – The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) have announced that all ticket revenue from Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Georgia will be donated to humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza, adding a wider purpose to a match that could prove pivotal – as Türkiye’s qualifying chances hang in the balance. 

 

The Group E fixture will be played this evening at Kocaeli Stadium in Izmit, where proceeds from every ticket sold will be directed towards aid projects supporting civilians affected by the ongoing conflict. In its statement, the federation said the initiative was intended “to stand with the people of Gaza, who are enduring a humanitarian tragedy,” adding that football can serve as “a bridge of solidarity in difficult times.” 

 

The TFF called on supporters to fill the 34,000-seat stadium, framing attendance as both a much-needed show of support for the national team and an equally-vital contribution to humanitarian work.  

 

“We invite all our fans to unite for this meaningful cause,” the statement read. 

 

The move aligns with Turkey’s broader humanitarian position and follows a series of national-level efforts to channel aid to Gaza. While the TFF did not disclose which specific organisations will receive the funds, it is expected that the proceeds will be distributed through recognised relief agencies working in the region. 

 

On the pitch, the match has its own importance. A crucial step in Türkiye’s bid to reach the 2026 World Cup, it provides a critical opportunity to go six points clear of Georgia and virtually wrap up the qualifying progress. 

After a mixed start in Group E, a loss to Georgia would tie things up between the two sides and make things very tense indeed. 

 

Still, Tuesday’s fixture will carry more than competitive weight. By dedicating all ticket income to humanitarian assistance, the TFF has positioned the game as a reminder of football’s capacity to connect national passion with global responsibility — even in the midst of high-stakes qualification. 

 

For the federation, it is also an opportunity to underline the unifying influence of the sport at a time when the region’s attention is drawn far beyond the touchline.
 

Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1760437441labto1760437441ofdlr1760437441owedi1760437441sni@g1760437441niwe.1760437441yrrah1760437441