Turkish football refers to the sport of football (soccer) as organized and played in Turkey. It encompasses both professional and amateur levels of play, with a strong cultural significance and a passionate fan base. The governing body for football in Turkey is the Turkish Football Federation (TFF), which oversees the national league system, known as the Süper Lig, along with various lower divisions and cup competitions.
Turkish football is characterized by its competitive nature, with several prominent clubs, such as Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş, which have rich histories and fierce rivalries, particularly in the Istanbul derbies. On the international stage, the Turkish national team has represented the country in various tournaments, achieving notable success, including reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA European Championship in 2008.
The sport has a significant impact on Turkish society, contributing to national pride and community identity, with matches often attracting large crowds and generating intense enthusiasm. In addition, Turkish football has seen an influx of international players and coaches, which has influenced the style and quality of play in the leagues.