Turkish national team players seen smoking before World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 12:33 PM
Last updated Jun 13, 2026
Footage has emerged showing Turkish national team players smoking on a hotel balcony just hours before their World Cup opener against Australia. The video, which went viral on social media, raises concerns over player focus ahead of this crucial match at BC Place in Vancouver. Key player Çağlar Söyüncü was identifiable in the footage, which has led to speculation regarding the substance being smoked, though it remains unverified. Türkiye's camp has faced added pressure after the United States defeated Paraguay in their group, increasing the stakes for Türkiye's performance against Australia.
- •Türkiye faces Australia in their World Cup opener today at 9 p.m. local time.
- •The team has been training in Mesa, Arizona before traveling to Vancouver.
- •Opta's model gives Türkiye a 55% chance of winning against Australia.
- •The incident could affect team discipline and focus ahead of the match.
- 12:33 PMYahoo Sports — Turkish national team players seen smoking in a hotel balcony before World Cup opener vs. Australia
"Türkiye’s World Cup build-up has been overshadowed by controversy after footage emerged appearing to show several national team players smoking on a hotel balcony ahead of their opening match. The video began circulating on X on Saturday, just hours before Türkiye’s Group D opener against Australia at BC Place in Vancouver.
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