Harun Nasrullah
Former football star Mesut Özil has used a high-profile visit to the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus (TRNC) to challenge international sports bodies and endorse a two-state solution for the island. During his trip, the ex-Arsenal and Real Madrid playmaker aligned with the position of TRNC leader Ersin Tatar and Turkey by calling for an end to sports embargoes and expressing support for a two-state solution.
Taking to social media on September 29, Özil directly addressed FIFA and UEFA, stating it was time to act on the long-standing restrictions. “For years there have been sports embargoes imposed on the Turkish Cypriot population, it is now time to act,” Özil wrote. “During my visit to the TRNC, I met with young athletes and President Ersin Tatar to discuss what can be done to lift these embargoes. Sport is a right for all.”
The meeting served as a platform for Tatar, who advocates abandoning the UN-backed federal model for a ‘two-state solution’ with international recognition for the north. Özil appeared to endorse this position, speaking about the “importance of having a state.” This stance aligns with that of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, a longtime ally of Özil, who has similarly demanded an “end to isolation” for the territory.
Cyprus has been divided since Turkey’s 1974 military invasion. The sports embargoes Özil cited result from the north’s lack of international recognition, which prevents its football association from being recognised by FIFA and UEFA, barring its teams from international competition. Özil, a German-born World Cup winner of Turkish descent, has maintained close ties to Turkey and frequently comments on political issues affecting the Turkish diaspora.
Photo: Former Arsenal playmaker Mesut Özil (pictured at his 2022 signing ceremony for Medipol Basaksehir in Istanbul) has called on FIFA and UEFA to end the sports embargoes on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Özil has publicly supported a two-state solution for the island. (Credit: Ali Atmaca/AA)
