Istanbul Municipality responds to criticism of Olympics campaign in Paris

Duvar English

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) on Aug. 7 opened “House of Istanbul,” a two-day exhibition overtaking Paris’ famous fashion museum Palais Galliera, to highlight Turkish sport, arts, and culture, and promote Istanbul’s plans for the 4th European Games in 2027.

Istanbul mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu was in Paris along with main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) chair Özgür Özel and Ankara mayor Mansur Yavaş for the exhibition. The trio also attended the Turkish national volleyball team’s quarter- and semi-final matches. 

Although the project was jointly prepared by the municipality and the Turkish National Olympic Committee (TMOK), the İBB drew criticism from media outlets close to the government, particularly concerning the project's costs. 

Presidential Chief Advisor Ahmet Selim Köroğlu shared a video on social media of İmamoğlu promoting the House of Istanbul, commenting, "Those who criticize palaces, here is your palace! By the way, just like you, the Young Turks also didn't leave Paris," referring to the revolutionary group of Ottoman intellectuals. 

In response to the criticism, İmamoğlu's advisor, Murat Ongun, clarified that the information circulating about the House of Istanbul was inaccurate.

Ongun stated on social media that the weekly rent for the House of Istanbul was 249,000 euros and that all expenses were covered by unconditional donations from sponsors. He emphasized that no funds from the İBB budget were used for this significant international promotional activity related to Istanbul's Olympic bid.

Attendees of the opening reception included Turkey's Ambassador to Paris, OECD Ambassador Kerem Alkin, International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Nenad Lalović, European Olympic Committees (EOC) President Spyros Capralos, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, CHP Istanbul Provincial Chairman Özgür Çelik, and 17 district mayors of Istanbul.

In his opening speech, İmamoğlu stated, "Hosting the European Games in Istanbul in 2027 will be a powerful symbol of unity, demonstrating to the world that despite our differences, we can come together in the spirit of friendly competition. Istanbul is a living testament to the enduring power of culture, history, and human achievement."

Özel expressed his hope that Istanbul would host the 2036 Olympic Games.

"Today, we are experiencing a beautiful day together here in Paris. We are among friends, part of the Olympic family. In the coming period, we hope to host the Olympics in Istanbul. We are always thrilled when Istanbul hosts sporting events," Özel said.