Ülker Stadium Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saracoğlu Sports Complex

Ülker Stadium, officially known as "Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium," is the home ground of Fenerbahçe Sports Club and is located in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul. With a seating capacity ranging between 47,834 and 50,530, it is the fourth largest stadium in Türkiye. The stadium is named after Şükrü Saracoğlu, who served as president of Fenerbahçe Sports Club from 1934 to 1950 and donated the land to the club. For many years it was known as "Fenerbahçe Stadium," and it was officially renamed "Şükrü Saracoğlu" during the presidency of Aziz.

History

The land on which the stadium stands was first used in 1908 for sporting purposes. Initially used by various clubs, the stadium was fully purchased by Fenerbahçe Sports Club in 1929 and renamed "Fenerbahçe Stadium." By the late 1940s, the stadium consisted of a single covered stand and three open terraces on the other sides, with a capacity of approximately 25,000 spectators.

Extensive renovation works carried out between 1999 and 2006 resulted in the complete reconstruction of all stands, the installation of a roof system, and an increase in the number of skyboxes from 58 to 132. This renovated version of the stadium was completed and opened for service in 2006. Additionally, in 2009, it hosted a UEFA Cup final match, gaining international recognition.

Facility Features

The stadium stands out for its modern architecture and advanced infrastructure. All stands include medical rooms, changing rooms, VIP lounges, and special areas for UEFA officials, a doping control room, an accreditation room, and a medical facility for players. On the upper level of the main stand, there are also relaxation and meeting rooms for 200 people. Within the complex are Fenerium shops, the Fenerbahçe Museum, a Migros supermarket, and various commercial showroom spaces. Designed to allow fans and their families to enjoy matches in a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, the facility is considered to be more advanced than many stadiums in Türkiye.

Important Events

In addition to hosting Fenerbahçe’s home matches, the stadium has also hosted major international events. The most significant of these was the 2009 UEFA Cup Final, in which Shakhtar Donetsk defeated Werder Bremen 2-1 to win the trophy.

Facility Amenities

The Fenerium Shops, Fenerbahçe Museum, Migros supermarket, and various commercial showroom spaces owned by the Doğuş Group located within the stadium complex are popular destinations for visitors from all over the world.

Location

Ülker Stadium is situated in the Kadıköy district of Istanbul, on the historic area known as "Papazın Çayırı," immediately adjacent to the point where Kurbağalı Creek flows into Kalamış Bay. Thanks to its proximity to Kadıköy Pier and Kadıköy Train Station, access to the stadium is extremely convenient and it offers significant advantages in terms of public transportation options.