Beating financial doping and 35 signal flares: Göztepe’s rise under Turkey’s first foreign ownership
PR | Rasmus Ankersen, co-founder of Sport Republic, has served as president of Göztepe since the group acquired a majority stake in the club in 2022.
The Recap
Since Sport Republic's takeover, Göztepe have become a sporting and financial success. Group co-founder Rasmus Ankersen reveals the challenges of competing in a league shaped by “financial doping” and pitch-side drama.
Data Insight
With a player wage budget of around €10 million, Göztepe show how a sustainable model can remain competitive while operating on a fraction of the budget of Turkey’s ‘big four’ clubs.
Why It Matters
As Turkish football's first foreign investor, Sport Republic offers a new perspective on operating in a market known for intense emotions and political influence.
The Perspective
Göztepe's rise highlights the potential of investing in an inefficient market despite the challenges that come with it.
19 August 2026 - 3:00 PM
A few minutes into the İzmir derby between Göztepe S.K. and Altay İzmir, a red flare arcs from the away end of the Gürsel Aksel Stadium.
Fired by an Altay supporter into the Göztepe home section, it strikes a fan in the face.
The match is paused as an ambulance drives onto the pitch to treat the injured supporter.
Among the spectators is Rasmus Ankersen, president of Göztepe and
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