Başakşehir Fatih Terim Stadyumu – stadium description

History of this stadium dates back to 2006, when first plans of its construction were disclosed. From the very start it was planned as future home for IBB, a municipal club with much investment, but very few fans.

Its initial capacity was hoped to reach 22,500, but was later scaled down to a number still highly exceeding actual demand – 14,500. Eventual seating configuration brought the capacity up again, to 17,319.

Construction in Istanbul’s northern district of Başakşehir (just a few km from the national stadium) was due for groundbreaking in October 2006. However, seeing a number of changes in the entire scheme actual construction began in 2013 (after preparatory work in 2012).

Within 16 months the stadium and its surrounding complex were ready, giving the host club a ground of international standard and three training pitches, along with a campus. In turn the investment proved roughly 60% more expensive than envisaged in 2006, costing TRY 178 million.

The aesthetic and functional side was designed by Arima Mimarlik, who produced a few quirky solutions. Despite being football-only, the stadium has curved end stands. Also, though the roof is placed high enough, the stadiums floodlights were placed at 4 separate masts.

In 2014, just before official opening, IBB transformed into IBFK, losing a portion of their few supporters. Despite this fact there were crowds at the official opening, attended by Prime Minister Erdogan, seeing the hosts spare no expense to make it a true feast. The stadium was then named after Fatih Terim, legendary player and manager of the Turkish national team.