Hamit Altıntop is a professional association football player born in Gelsenkirchen who established a career across Germany, Spain, and Turkey. He received the 2010 FIFA Puskás Award for a notable volley scored during a UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying match. Following his retirement, he transitioned into football administration with the Turkish Football Federation and UEFA.
The 2010 FIFA Puskás Award went to Hamit Altıntop for a notable volley against Kazakhstan during a UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying match. Born in Gelsenkirchen in 1982, this versatile footballer established a professional career spanning Germany, Spain, and Turkey. Beyond his technical contributions on the pitch, he eventually transitioned into a significant role within football administration at the national and international levels.
Early Career and Bundesliga Tenure
Altıntop launched his professional journey in 2000 at the German club Wattenscheid alongside his twin brother, Halil. His performance led to a move to Schalke 04 in 2003, where he played primarily as a defensive midfielder. During his tenure, the team reached second place in the Bundesliga. In 2007, he moved to Bayern Munich on a free transfer. His time there included appearances in the 2010 UEFA Champions League Final and a successful tenure that ended in 2011 after contract negotiations stalled.
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In 2011, Altıntop signed a four-year contract with Real Madrid. His debut occurred in September during a Champions League match against AFC Ajax, and he scored his first goal for the club in December against Sevilla FC. In 2012, he transferred to Galatasaray SK, where he helped the club win the 2012 Turkish Super Cup. Injuries hindered his later seasons, leading to his departure in 2017. He briefly played for Darmstadt 98 before retiring from professional play in 2018.
International Impact
As a member of the Turkish national team, Altıntop was a fixture during the Euro 2008 tournament, where Turkey reached the semi-finals. His contributions earned him a place in the official 23-man Team of the Tournament. He captained the side for the first time in March 2011 during a 2-0 win over Austria. His international career remains tied to his reputation for creative midfield play and long-range shooting capabilities.
Administrative Transition
Following his retirement in 2018, Altıntop joined the Turkish Football Federation board. He held responsibilities related to national teams and contributed to preparations for UEFA Euro 2024. In 2024, he concluded his TFF service and accepted an appointment to the UEFA National Team Competitions Committee for the 2023-27 cycle. Additionally, he served as the ambassador for the 2023 UEFA Champions League Final held in Istanbul.
Fast facts
- Born: 8 December 1982, Gelsenkirchen
- Professional debut: 2000, Wattenscheid
- FIFA Puskás Award: 2010
- Marriage: Feyza Veli, 2014, Çırağan Palace
- Citizenship: Turkey
- Religion: Islam
Questions readers ask
Did Hamit Altıntop play for the same clubs as his brother?
Yes, both played for Wattenscheid and Schalke 04.
What major individual award did he receive?
He won the 2010 FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal of the year.
