Former Germany international Mesut Özil has officially transitioned into politics, joining Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party). The 36-year-old ex-footballer was named as a member of the Central Decision and Management Board of the AK Party during a congress held on Sunday, marking a significant shift in his post-football career.
Özil, who rose to global prominence as a playmaker for clubs such as Real Madrid and Arsenal, has long shared a close relationship with Erdogan. His latest move into politics further solidifies his alignment with the Turkish president, whom he has openly supported over the years.
The former midfielder, born in Germany to Turkish parents, has always maintained strong ties to his ancestral homeland. However, his association with Erdogan has been a subject of intense scrutiny, particularly during the latter years of his football career. Özil’s political affiliations and public endorsement of Erdogan’s policies have drawn criticism from various quarters, especially in Germany, where his loyalty was questioned.
Özil’s relationship with Erdogan first sparked controversy in 2018 when he, alongside fellow German international Ilkay Gündogan, met the Turkish leader in London. The photo from that meeting caused a media frenzy in Germany, leading to public backlash and political debate. Some German politicians and media figures accused Özil of undermining Germany’s values, with some even suggesting he should be dropped from the national team ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
The criticism intensified after Germany’s disappointing group-stage exit from the tournament. Özil, who had been a key player in Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad, became the scapegoat for the team’s failure. Amid rising tensions, he announced his retirement from international football in July 2018, citing racism and discrimination as key reasons. In a lengthy statement, he declared that he felt unwanted in Germany due to his Turkish roots, famously stating: “I am German when we win, but I am an immigrant when we lose.”
Özil’s decision to step away from the national team did not deter him from maintaining his bond with Erdogan. In 2019, the Turkish president was a guest of honor at Özil’s wedding to former Miss Turkey, Amine Gülşe, further fueling discussions about his political affiliations. The midfielder continued to express support for Erdogan’s leadership and openly backed his election campaigns.
After retiring from professional football in 2023 following a brief stint with Istanbul Başakşehir, Özil gradually became more active in Turkish political circles. His appointment to the AK Party’s decision-making board signals a new chapter in his career, one that aligns him more directly with the country’s political landscape.
Erdogan’s government has relied on support from influential figures in sports and entertainment to bolster its image, and Özil’s involvement could serve as a strategic move for the ruling party. Given his international fame and deep-rooted connections to the Turkish diaspora, Özil is expected to play a role in engaging youth and bridging the gap between Turkish nationals abroad and domestic politics.
The former football star’s latest political engagement comes amid a broader discussion about the intersection of sports and politics. His case highlights the challenges athletes face when navigating dual national identities, particularly when political affiliations become a focal point of public debate.
Özil’s political shift has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters of Erdogan and the AK Party have praised his decision, seeing it as a natural progression for someone who has always been vocal about his Turkish heritage. On the other hand, critics argue that his involvement in Turkish politics further distances him from his German upbringing, reinforcing the divisions that led to his controversial exit from international football.
Despite stepping away from the pitch, Özil remains a widely recognized figure in global football. His career saw him win numerous titles, including La Liga with Real Madrid, multiple FA Cups with Arsenal, and the prestigious World Cup with Germany. Known for his vision, technical ability, and playmaking skills, he was once regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.
Özil’s political aspirations are yet to be fully defined, but his presence in Erdogan’s ruling party suggests he may take on an active role in shaping policies or influencing public discourse. Whether this marks the beginning of a long-term political career or a temporary engagement remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his transition from football to politics is one of the most notable post-career moves in recent times.
His close ties with Erdogan were once again on display in 2024 when the two were seen seated together during the Netherlands vs. Turkey match. The image of the former footballer and the Turkish leader side by side further reinforced the idea that Özil has firmly positioned himself within the political landscape of his ancestral homeland.
While his journey in football was filled with moments of brilliance, accolades, and controversies, his political career is just beginning. With his influence and popularity, Özil has the potential to become a key figure in Turkish politics, particularly among young voters and the Turkish diaspora.
As the football world watches his transition, it remains to be seen how he will navigate this new arena. Whether he becomes an active policymaker or a symbolic figure within the AK Party, one thing is clear—Mesut Özil has never shied away from making bold decisions, and his latest move is yet another chapter in an already eventful life.
