Turkey hosts international sports festivals and marathons

Turkey is hosting several major international sporting events, leading to significant local activity and traffic adjustments in Eskişehir and Istanbul.

In Eskişehir, the ETİ Lifalif International Half Marathon and Sports Festival drew 2,465 athletes from 14 countries, including the US, Russia, and Germany. The event featured a 21km half marathon and a 10km run, with winners including Yunus Emre Akkuş in the men's 21km category and Resul Çevik in the men's 10km. The festival also included yoga, pilates, and children's races.

In Istanbul, the 2026 International Asia and Europe Triathlon Championship necessitated extensive road closures. The Istanbul Police Department announced closures in Beykoz, Üsküdar, Sarıyer, and Beşiktaş, as well as restrictions on the TEM Highway and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge. Drivers were advised to use alternative routes such as the North Marmara Highway and the Eurasia Tunnel.

Additionally, the Tour of Ordu 2026 cycling race concluded with Santiago Abner from the Solution Tech Nippo Rali Team winning the 119km Ordu-Perşembe Yaylası stage. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Runfire Salt Lake Ultra Trail Marathon at Lake Tuz, which expects 750 athletes from 10 countries.