Controversy over FC Barcelona football camp in occupied Nicosia

FC Barcelona has sparked significant controversy by announcing a youth football training camp, titled 'Lefkosa Camp', scheduled to take place in the Turkish-occupied area of Nicosia. The events are set for September 7–11 and 16–20, 2026, and were listed on the club's official website using the term 'Northern Cyprus'. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding a music festival named 'Zamna', which is planned for October 10, 2026.

Political party ELAM has formally requested that the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intervene to cancel both events, labeling them an affront to national sovereignty. The Cyprus Football Association (KOP) is currently investigating the potential breach of FIFA and UEFA regulations and has lodged formal representations with UEFA. Clubs such as Nea Salamina and Anorthosis have also sent official letters to FC Barcelona, calling for the immediate cancellation of the camp and criticizing the use of the term 'Northern Cyprus'.

Critics argue that the involvement of a prominent EU-based football academy legitimizes the occupation. The situation remains sensitive, with historical context provided by the 2014 visit of former club president Joan Laporta to the occupied territories, which also drew similar criticism at the time. The Cypriot government is reportedly working through diplomatic channels to prevent these events from proceeding.