As the inaugural Mustafa V. Koç Sports Award found its first recipients this year, we rolled up our sleeves to create a flawless award ceremony in every sense.
Paralympic national archer Gizem Girişmen and Olympic national wrestler Taha Akgül became the first recipients of the Mustafa V. Koç Sports Award on the night of September 25, to the sound of resounding applause. Created in memory of Mustafa V. Koç, this sports award touched the hearts of guests not only with its philosophy but also with its elegant event design.
From event and lighting design to seating arrangements and stage performances, every detail of the ceremony was meticulously crafted. With a program that was intense yet minimalistic, the event distinguished itself from others of its kind.
Tony Britten, known for composing the UEFA Champions League anthem, also composed the main theme music for the Mustafa V. Koç Sports Award. While Gizem and Taha’s heartfelt acceptance speeches left a strong impression, the moment when Britten conducted a 54-piece orchestra became etched in memory.
As the orchestra performed the theme, our national gymnasts Selin Kılavuz and Elif Zeynep Celep delivered an artistic performance—sometimes interacting with each other, sometimes with the music—using rhythmic gymnastics balls and a kinetic lighting setup. Through their choreography, they brought to life Olympic values like friendship, respect, and excellence, leaving a lasting impact on both the minds and hearts of the audience.
The evening opened with a special film dedicated to Mustafa V. Koç. It continued to rise with presentations by speakers including Koç Holding Board Member and Chair of the Award Jury Caroline N. Koç and Olympic Champion Lord Sebastian Coe, and concluded with a film showcasing the stories of the winning athletes.
The Mustafa V. Koç Award Ceremony has come to an end, but the excitement of that first night—and the pride our athletes brought us—will never be forgotten.
