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Fenerbahce ultras: Who are the Genc Fenerbahceliler?

For those that have ever travelled to watch their team at Fenerbahce's Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, there is a strong chance that you have come away in awe of the atmosphere, especially from a particular area of the arena.

The Turk Telekom Okul Acik Tribune is home to the Genc Fenerbahceliler, a group of the team's ultras, who are known to provide near-unrivalled support, with their chanting and visual displays spurring the players on.

They have not always been known to occupy that part of the stadium, with the ground having undergone significant renovations, though the support offered by the ultras has not changed.

FootballGroundGuide now takes a closer look at the group ahead of Fenerbahce's match against Liverpool in November.

What is Genc Fenerbahceliler?

The name “Genc Fenerbahceliler” (GFB) rather fittingly translates to “Young Fenerbahce Supporters,” with the group historically tied to the youthful exuberance of the club's supporter base, though it has expanded far beyond just young fans of Fenerbahce.

There are now numerous subgroups that affiliate themselves with GFB, and it is not uncommon to find these organisational branches spread across other European countries.

Wearing the colours of the club (yellow and navy) has become an easily identifiable sign of comradery, an especially important detail considering the fierce nature of rivalries in Turkish football.

Who are the Genc Fenerbahceliler ultras?

Founded in 1998 by Sefa Kalya, GFB were a relatively modest section of Fenerbahce's supporter base until the early 2000s, when young fans in their droves flocked to the group.

In the early years of the organisation, the group first called the Marathon Tribune area of Sukru Saracoglu Stadium home, and the fans in that section grew to fame amongst Turkish football supporters, in part because of fervent chanting and singing, but also because of the tifo displays from the stands.

One of the unique aspects to GFB is their friendship with supporter groups of other clubs, including with Serbian team FK Novi Pazar and Greek side AEK Athens.

For more information, GFB's YouTube channel will provide a sense of just how impactful they can be for Fenerbahce.

Why is Genc Fenerbahceliler famous?

Turkish football is known to have vocal fanbases, and everyone at Fenerbahce's home games plays their part in creating an extraordinary atmosphere.

However, Genc Fenerbahceliler take it to the next level, with the ultras regularly unfurling giant displays in the stands, setting off flares and chanting in an organised and intimidating manner.

Loyalty and devotion are demanded for those in the group or any of their many subgroups, and the fact the GFB are still going strong after almost two decades suggests they have been successful across generations.

Where do Genc Fenerbahceliler sit at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium?

As previously mentioned, the original home of GFB in Sukru Saracoglu Stadium was the Marathon Tribune, but they now find themselves in Turk Telekom Okul Acik Tribune following renovations.

The stand can be found at the south of the venue, and it is located behind one of the goals, a perfect area from which to offer support.

Visiting fans will note how much impact the ultras can have in matches, with the ball at times being sucked into the net by the atmosphere.

With a keen interest in both football and writing, Lewis has merged his two passions to report on events within the football sphere. Having studied English as an undergraduate at King's College London, before earning a Masters Degree studying Digital Culture and Society, Lewis is well equipped to cover the latest topics. Lewis is a lifelong Liverpool fan - his first ever Anfield game was a 2-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur - and he has previously contributed for fan websites. Follow Lewis on Twitter @LewisFN00.

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