Turks felt proud on Tuesday after the Euro 2032 tournament was awarded to their country in partnership with Italy, the biggest sporting event ever staged.
Turkish Sports Minister Osman Ashken Pak said: "The heart of football will beat in Turkey in 2032. We are delighted to organise Euro 2032 in partnership with our friend Italy."
He told reporters outside the Turkish parliament that "hosting the European Championship would be an important step forward for Turkish football. We have a lot of great stadiums and more under construction."
Park hinted at Turkey's intention to host the Olympics in the future.
He added that the authorities have not yet settled on the cities that will host the European Championship, noting that Turkey has several options of stadiums and facilities needed.
Football fans in Istanbul, Turkey's largest city, greeted the news with great joy.
Muammar Onler, who works in automotive furniture and accessories, said: "Of course it makes us proud. Football is the most beautiful thing in the world."
Omer Ozturk, a textile worker, focused on the economic benefits of organizing the tournament.
"It will reflect on the economy. If we present ourselves well, people will deal more with our economy. It will be the biggest propaganda for our country."
Turkey, a country of 85 million people, has previously hosted the Champions League and Formula 1 finals, but has not staged the most-watched football tournaments such as the European Championship, the World Cup or even the Olympics.