Football legend Mesut Ozil, a World Cup winner with Germany, has taken a significant step into Turkish politics by joining the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). At a congress in Ankara on Sunday, Ozil was elected to the AKP’s central decision and executive committee, alongside President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s re-election as party head for the ninth time, reports Middle East Eye.
Ozil’s strong ties with Erdogan, dating back to his wedding in 2019, have been well-documented. His illustrious football career, which included stints at Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Fenerbahce, saw him win numerous titles including La Liga and four FA Cups, while also earning 92 caps for the German national team, including a 2014 World Cup win.
However, Ozil's relationship with the German national team soured following the 2018 World Cup, when he retired from international football, accusing the German media and football association of racial discrimination. The controversy heightened after Ozil and fellow German international Ilkay Gundogan met with Erdogan, leading to criticism from both German and international figures. Ozil, expressing his frustration, stated, "I am German when we win, an immigrant when we lose."
Since his retirement, Ozil has become increasingly vocal on political and human rights issues. He condemned China’s actions against Uyghur Muslims in 2019, sparking tensions with China. He has also weighed in on geopolitical matters, including the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Palestinian rights.
Ozil is not the first footballer to enter Turkish politics, following former Aston Villa defender Alpay Ozalan, who has been a member of Turkey’s parliament since 2018.
Ozil’s political move marks a new chapter in his career, continuing his public advocacy beyond the football field.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
