State officials gathered at Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, to mark April 23 National Sovereignty and Children’s Day alongside the Turkish Grand National Assembly’s 104th anniversary. The ceremony, attended by prominent figures including Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, CHP Chairman Özgür Özel, and MHP Deputy Speaker Celal Adan, paid tribute to Atatürk’s legacy. Children from all 81 provinces joined the officials, holding Turkish flags as they walked the Road of Lions to Atatürk’s mausoleum. A wreath-laying ceremony, a moment of silence, and the singing of the National Anthem marked the solemn occasion in the Turkish Capital of Ankara.
After Azerbaijan’s 5-0 loss to Iceland in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, manager Fernando Santos parted ways with the team. Santos, who took charge in June 2024, left without a win in 11 matches.
Turkish coach Engin Fırat has emerged as the leading candidate to replace him. German outlets kicker.de, ran.de, and Sport1 called Fırat the “favorite,” while Iran’s Varzesh3 labeled him a “serious candidate.” His recent success with Kenya, including an eight-match unbeaten run and wins against top teams, boosted his profile for the role.
TR