The European Olympics Committees (EOC) has officially announced Istanbul as the host city for the 2027 European Games.
Following the signing of the Host City Contract by the EOC, Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM) and Turkish National Olympic Committee (NOC), Türkiye’s largest city can begin preparations.
These games are significant for several reasons, one of which is that athletes competing in the event will be looking to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. However, they will have to wait until the sports programme is released later this year.
Another reason is that this is only the fourth edition of the European Games, placing added pressure on the EOC and those involved to continue the momentum and grow the event from the last edition in Kraków, Poland.
Spyros Capralos, President of the EOC, said: “The signing of the Host City Contract for the Istanbul 2027 European Games marks a significant milestone for the EOC, and we are excited to take this important step forward.
“The excellent relationship that the EOC has enjoyed with Istanbul, the Turkish NOC and the Turkish government has been invaluable in bringing us to this point. Their dedication and collaboration have been essential in making this vision a reality.”
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Last year, Insider Sport attended a press conference after the aforementioned organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). During the meeting, Capralos emphasised Türkiye’s “strong history of organising outstanding events” and “dedication to sport” made it the right country to host the games.
This was a sentiment the EOC President reiterated in the latest meeting. He said: “As we prepare for the fourth edition of the European Games, we are committed to delivering an event that not only highlights the very best of European sport but also celebrates the rich culture and hospitality of Istanbul and Türkiye.
“Together, we will elevate the European Games to new heights, and I am confident that Istanbul 2027 will be a truly world-class event that unites athletes and spectators alike. We look forward to working closely with our Turkish partners in the years ahead to make this a truly memorable Games.”
Not only do these games benefit the EOC and athletes, but the host cities can also experience significant positive changes from the games. Türkiye’s infrastructure is already sufficient, according to the EOC, though Istanbul does have ambitions of upgrading current venues.
Looking back at last year’s press conference, Capralos highlighted the effects Athens, Greece saw after the 2004 games. He noted that areas like tourism, commercial opportunities and new investments from abroad all increased, and suggested that Istanbul will see a similar trend.
One figure hoping that prediction becomes reality is Ekrem İmamoğlu, Mayor of Istanbul. Attending the recent event, he concluded: “This is a proud moment for our city and for Türkiye as we take on the responsibility of hosting the European Games. I would like to express my gratitude to the EOC and the Turkish NOC for their trust and collaboration.
