Berlin erupted in jubilant celebrations Wednesday night as the Turkish national football team secured a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their first qualification in 24 years. The victory, a 1-0 win against Kosovo in a playoff final, triggered spontaneous gatherings of Turkish fans across Germany, with large-scale car processions and displays of pyrotechnics. However, the celebrations weren’t without incident, as police reported isolated arrests amid the festivities.
The scenes unfolded shortly after the final whistle blew in Pristina, Kosovo. Fans quickly converged on major city centers, transforming streets into impromptu party zones. In Berlin, the Kurfürstendamm became a focal point, with hundreds of supporters waving Turkish flags and parading in car convoys. The atmosphere, while largely celebratory, was punctuated by the sound of car horns and, at times, fireworks.
According to a dpa reporter on the scene, the initial reaction was somewhat chaotic, with people streaming from U-Bahn stations and side streets onto the Breitscheidplatz. Vehicles struggled to navigate the crowds, moving at a crawl or coming to a complete standstill. Groups formed and dispersed, chanting “Türkiye, Türkiye, Türkiye” and waving flags. Some fans climbed onto street furniture to gain a better vantage point.
Traffic Disrupted, Police Intervene
The celebrations quickly led to significant traffic congestion around the KaDeWe department store, Wittenbergplatz, and Breitscheidplatz. Cars lined the streets, hazard lights flashing, and the flow of traffic ground to a halt. Public transportation was also affected. Police responded by blocking off sections of roads to manage the crowds and create space for emergency vehicles.
The mood on Breitscheidplatz was described as both exuberant and controlled. Families stood on the sidelines, children perched on shoulders, while younger fans filmed the scenes with their phones. Smaller circles formed, with people clapping in time to music and singing the Turkish national anthem. A woman with two young children was observed quietly weeping with joy, a flag clutched in her hand.
Isolated incidents of pyrotechnics added to the atmosphere, with flares illuminating the square and smoke drifting through the crowds. However, the situation escalated as the night progressed. Police reported an increase in the employ of fireworks and instances of disruptive behavior, including shouting.
Arrests Made as Celebrations Intensify
Shortly before midnight, police intervened after a young man allegedly ignited fireworks. When he attempted to flee, he stumbled and fell, leading to his arrest. A crowd gathered around the officers, prompting a call for reinforcements. The man was subsequently taken into custody. Police reported further isolated incidents and made additional arrests throughout the night, though the overall situation remained manageable.
The celebrations weren’t confined to Berlin. Similar scenes unfolded in other German cities, including Frankfurt, Munich, Bremen, and Dortmund. In Frankfurt, car convoys cruised along the Mainufer riverbank. Munich saw thousands gather around the Siegestor (Victory Gate), while in Bremen and Dortmund, hundreds congregated in city centers. Reports from these locations also indicated the use of fireworks and, in some cases, reckless driving.
By shortly after midnight, the crowds in Berlin began to disperse. Vehicles resumed moving, and police gradually reopened streets. The Breitscheidplatz was largely empty by 2 a.m., leaving behind a scene of lingering excitement and a few lingering fans waiting for transportation.
This qualification marks only the third time Turkey has reached the World Cup finals, following appearances in 1954 and 2002. Notably, in 2002, Turkey exceeded expectations, reaching the semi-finals and securing a third-place finish after defeating South Korea 3-2. The current team, coached by Franco Foda (who previously managed Kosovo), will be looking to replicate that success in the upcoming tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Kerem Aktürkoğlu’s 53rd-minute goal proved decisive in the playoff final against Kosovo, securing Turkey’s place in the competition. The win was particularly poignant for Turkey, as it ended a 24-year wait to return to the world stage. Kosovo, under Foda’s leadership, came close to achieving a historic first-time qualification but ultimately fell short.
The scenes in Germany reflect the strong connection between the Turkish diaspora and their national team. With tens of thousands of people of Turkish origin residing in Germany, the victory resonated deeply within the community, prompting a widespread and passionate outpouring of celebration.
The Turkish national team will now turn their attention to preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Details regarding their schedule and friendly matches leading up to the tournament will be announced in the coming months. Fans can follow official updates on the Turkish Football Federation’s website and social media channels.
The celebrations, while largely peaceful, serve as a reminder of the powerful emotions surrounding international football and the deep sense of national pride it can evoke. As Turkey prepares for its return to the World Cup, the excitement within the Turkish community – both at home and abroad – is palpable.
