Amedspor in Turkish football: multi-dimensional resistance against multi-dimensional racism

Abstract

This study examines Amedspor’s role in Kurdish resistance to racism in Turkey, focusing on grassroots mobilization, identity and belonging, and rights-based struggle. Based on ten in-depth interviews with Amedspor’s managers and fans and content analysis of secondary data sources, the research shows how state repression paradoxically strengthened Kurdish solidarity around the club. We argue that the systemic nature of racism, where prevailing ideologies of Turkish superiority marginalise and criminalise Kurdish identity, echoes historical patterns and goes beyond ethnic discrimination. Amedspor’s struggle exemplifies the resilience of marginalized communities through activism and solidarity, challenging established racial hierarchies. This research contributes to the broader discourse on racism and colonialism in Turkey. While the study acknowledges limitations in focusing solely on Amedspor’s male team, it calls for future intersectional research on experiences of its female team and other marginalized teams fighting diverse forms of racism.