Excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is already prominent across North America. The Turkish national team has officially begun its training camp on U.S. soil, making it clear that, no matter the distance, they will have the unwavering support of their fans.
The European team set up its base camp at the Arizona Athletics Grounds in Mesa, Arizona. From this location, the Turkish squad will train and travel to their respective World Cup matches on the West Coast and in Canada.
To kick off their training camp, the Turkish Football Federation organized an official, FIFA-sanctioned open-door training session. Although admission was completely free, the anticipation was so high that the tickets, made available through a website with limited capacity, sold out in just one hour.
The Arda Güler Effect and a Devoted Fan Base
More than 3,000 people, the vast majority of whom were Turkish fans and members of Middle Eastern communities based in North America, turned the sports complex into a mini Istanbul. The main focus of attention and the loudest cheers from the stands were clearly directed at one person: Arda Guler
Real Madrid’s young star demonstrated his massive media appeal, cementing his status as his country’s greatest idol and top hope for this tournament.
Turkey’s Path in Group D
Placed in an extremely competitive group, Turkey will have to fly from their headquarters in Arizona to face the group stage with the following schedule:
- June 13 vs. Australia: The debut will take place across the northern border, at the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada.
- June 19 vs. Paraguay: The second match will take them back to the United States to play at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
- June 25 vs. United States: The group stage finale will be a true test of mettle as they face the hosts at the majestic Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California.
Turkey has made it clear that it is here to compete, and with the backing of its passionate fans, the team led by Güler promises to be one of the major contenders in this edition.
