Ottoman Empire
The main sports Ottomans were engaged in were Turkish Wrestling, hunting, Turkish archery, horseback riding, Equestrian javelin throw, arm wrestling, and swimming. European model sports clubs were formed with the spreading popularity of football matches in 19th century Constantinople. The leading clubs, according to timeline, were Besiktas Gymnastics Club (1903), Galatasaray Sports Club (1905) and Fenerbahce Sports Club (1907) in Istanbul. Football clubs were formed in other provinces too, such as Karsiyaka Sports Club (1912), Altay Sports Club (1914) and Turkish Fatherland Football Club (later Ulkuspor) (1914) of Izmir.
Where did football matches become to be popular in the Ottoman empire?
Constantinople
European model sports clubs were formed with the spreading popularity of football matches in 19th century Constantinople.
football matches