SPAIN ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS! KINGS OF THE WORLD

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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ARDHAN GOVERNOR REMOVED FROM DUTY: PROTESTS AND PETITION CAMPAIGNS CONTINUE

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time at the MetLife Stadium in New York to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The historic tournament, hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico with 48 teams for the first time, came to a close on July 19, 2026.

ARDHAN GOVERNOR REMOVED FROM DUTY: PROTESTS AND PETITION CAMPAIGNS CONTINUE

According to the latest appointment decision published in the Official Gazette, Ardahan Governor Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli has been dismissed and replaced by Ömer Hilmi Yamlı, the District Governor of Gaziantep Şehitkamil. It is claimed that the governor was removed because he wore tights. The public, who say the governor has been successful, continue protests and signature campaigns to ensure he stays. The governor had recently organized a major Bicycle Festival in Ardahan.

SIGNATURE CAMPAIGNS GROWING ACROSS ARDAHAN THOUSANDS SAY “LET OUR GOVERNOR STAY”

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Cloudy Skies Disappoint Visitors as Iconic Atatürk Silhouette Fails to Appear in Damal

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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ARDAHAN — The highly anticipated natural phenomenon at the 27th annual "In the Footsteps and Shadow of Atatürk" Damal Festival met with a cloudy setback this year, leaving hundreds of visitors disappointed.

The festival, held in the Damal district of Ardahan, celebrates a unique natural occurrence where the silhouette of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, appears on the side of the Karadağ mountains. The shadow is formed by the reflection of the setting sun against the hillsA Brief Weather Disappointment

Due to heavy cloud cover over the region during the peak viewing hours, the famous silhouette did not manifest. Many tourists and locals who had traveled to the site specifically for the event expressed their sadness at missing the spectacle.

Still Time to Watch

Despite the festival's cloudy turnout, officials and locals noted that all hope is not lost. The natural silhouette can still be observed on clear days until the end of July, between 17:55 and 18:10. Organizers encourage enthusiasts to keep an eye on the weather forecast and visit the site in the coming weeks.

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International Cycling Festival in Ardahan: One Thousand Cyclists Pedal for 40 Kilometers

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

The 'Ardahan Cycling Festival', organized for the first time this year, brought together thousands of sports enthusiasts from all across Turkey and abroad. Under the leadership of Ardahan Governor Mehmet Fatih Çiçekli, the 3-day festival attracted participants not only from Turkey but also from neighboring countries like Azerbaijan and Iran.

On the first day of the festival, participants completed their registration at the Ardahan University Campus. Following registration, one thousand cyclists started pedaling along a scenic 40-kilometer route extending from the university campus to the Hanak district. After the events in Hanak, the athletes took part in the second stage of the ride, which took place along the route of the famous Atatürk Silhouette in Damal.

Blending sports with natural beauty, the festival also featured thrilling paramotor shows and live concerts, adding immense excitement for both participants and local residents.

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