Turkey National Team Departs for World Cup 2026 in Grand Style

Turkiye Football Team Farewell Ceremony

On Tuesday, 2 June 2026, the Turkish national football team officially began their journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a memorable farewell ceremony in Istanbul.

After weeks of intense preparation at the TFF Hasan Doğan National Teams Camp in Riva, the squad departed for the United States with a special and emotional send-off organised by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF).

The Farewell Ceremony

The players left the Riva camp in a large convoy of vehicles. A long line of official buses, luxury cars, and escort vehicles, decorated with Turkish flags and "Türkiye" slogans, made its way from Riva toward Istanbul Airport. Fans lined the roads, waving flags and chanting support for the national team. Many supporters followed the convoy on motorcycles and cars, creating a patriotic and emotional atmosphere along the route.

The convoy passed through key areas including Beykoz and the Northern Marmara Highway before arriving at Istanbul Airport. At the airport, a special farewell ceremony was held in the presence of Youth and Sports Minister Osman Aşkın Bak, TFF President Mehmet Büyükekşi, and several former national team legends.

The players, dressed in matching team tracksuits, walked along a red carpet as fans and media cheered. Speeches were delivered expressing pride in the team’s qualification after 24 years and wishing them success in the United States.

Turkiye Football Team Farewell Ceremony

The Flight

The squad boarded a private charter flight arranged specifically for the national team. The flight departed from Istanbul Airport heading directly to the United States. This exclusive charter ensured comfort and privacy for the players during the long journey.

The team is scheduled to play friendly matches in the USA as part of their final preparations before the World Cup begins on 11 June 2026.

Significance of the Moment

This departure marks Turkey’s return to the World Cup after a 24-year absence. The national team, coached by Vincenzo Montella, qualified dramatically and has generated huge excitement across the country. The grand send-off reflected the high expectations and strong support from Turkish fans.

Friendly Match – 6 June 2026

On Saturday, 6 June 2026, Turkey will play their final preparatory match before the World Cup against Venezuela at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 local time (02:00 Tehran time on 7 June). This match is part of Turkey’s training camp in the United States and will serve as the last important test for Vincenzo Montella’s squad before the World Cup begins.

The game against Venezuela is significant as it gives the team a chance to face a South American side with a physical and technical style similar to some of their Group stage opponents. It will also allow Montella to finalise his starting lineup and tactics in real competitive conditions.

Turkey’s Group Stage Fixtures at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Turkey has been drawn in Group A alongside hosts United States, Australia, and Paraguay. They will play the following matches during the group stage:

• 13 June 2026 – Australia vs Turkey

• 19 June 2026 – Turkey vs Paraguay

• 25 June 2026 – Turkey vs United States

Turkey will open their campaign against Australia, followed by Paraguay, and finish the group stage with a highly anticipated match against the co-host United States. With strong support expected from the large Turkish community in America, these matches are expected to create a special atmosphere.

The top two teams from Group A will advance to the Round of 16, while the third-placed team may still have a chance to progress depending on the overall standings.

By Elmira Mirzadegan

Published on June 2, 2026