The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) has announced that UEFA’s Representation Office in Istanbul will begin operations on Thursday.

Located in TFF’s historic Levent Mansion, the Istanbul office will become UEFA’s third foreign office, following London and Brussels.

Istanbul, a city that bridges continents and connects history and civilizations, is now set to join the ranks of global football hubs.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will attend the opening ceremony at 12 p.m. on April 24, alongside UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA Executive Committee members, and national federation presidents.

Additionally, a gala dinner will be held on April 23 at Ciragan Palace Kempinski, bringing together football leaders to celebrate the new office and the anniversary of Türkiye’s National Sovereignty and Children’s Day.

Istanbul has long been recognized for hosting major football finals, including the 2005 UEFA Champions League final, the 2009 UEFA Cup final, the 2019 UEFA Super Cup final, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League final.

Starting next year, Istanbul will also host the 2026 UEFA Europa League final and the 2027 UEFA Conference League final, depending on stadium conditions.

The UEFA Istanbul Representation Office will play an essential role in the preparations for the 2032 UEFA European Championship, which will be co-hosted with Italy.