Aziz Yıldırım Announces Fenerbahçe Presidential Bid, Cites Debt to Fans

Aziz Yıldırım, a candidate for the Fenerbahçe presidency, has declared his intention to run, citing a deep-seated love for the club and a sense of obligation to its supporters as his driving forces. Speaking at an extraordinary general assembly meeting, Yıldırım expressed his longing to "sing championship songs in this stadium again" with the fans.

“

I miss singing championship songs in this stadium! We will sing them together!

"I have an unpaid debt to Fenerbahçe fans," Yıldırım stated, reflecting on his long history with the club. He reminisced about shared joys and sorrows, emphasizing that true support is remembered during difficult times. He recalled facing a "treasonous network" that infiltrated the state and targeted Fenerbahçe, asserting that it was the fans who stood by him when others were inactive or unaware.

“

What makes me Aziz Yıldırım is you, Fenerbahçe.

Yıldırım credited the Fenerbahçe supporters for shaping his identity, stating, "What makes me Aziz Yıldırım is you, Fenerbahçe." He rejected the notion that his candidacy is merely about seeking the presidency again, insisting it stems from an unshakeable bond and a desire to repay the loyalty shown to him throughout his life and his previous 20-year tenure as president.

“

I have an unpaid debt to Fenerbahçe fans.

He recounted instances of unwavering fan support, even during his darkest hours, such as celebrating his birthday with songs and cheers from behind prison walls when even family might have forgotten. He also highlighted the presence of 50,000 women filling the stands with love, underscoring the profound connection and commitment he feels towards the Fenerbahçe community. Yıldırım positioned himself as a fighter, empowered by the fans' solidarity, particularly in confronting those who betrayed the nation and state.

“

Who was by your side in difficult times, that is unforgettable. You, Fenerbahçe fans, were by my side when a treasonous network that had infiltrated our state and conspired against our homeland was attacking Fenerbahçe with slander after slander, blow after blow.