Wanda Nara teases idea of Turkish projects as Icardi visits Istanbul with new partner

Wanda Nara, the Argentine media personality and former wife of Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi, sparked speculation about her future in Türkiye after attending the 17th Best of Europe Awards in Istanbul.

While receiving the “Woman of the Year” award, she hinted at potential acting opportunities in Türkiye and explained what had brought her back to Istanbul.

Meanwhile, Mauro Icardi, who plays for Galatasaray and had a major knee injury in November 2024 and was out for the season, was also in the city. This coincident drew attention as he spent time with his new partner China Suarez, further fueling media attention.

Wanda Nara receives ‘Woman of the Year’ award at Best of Europe Awards

Nara arrived in Istanbul from Argentina for the ceremony and was greeted at the airport by event organizer Tugce Sarikaya Dagistan, who welcomed her with flowers. Speaking to the press upon arrival, she said, “I love Istanbul. I’m a bit tired and want to rest at the hotel. I’m also very excited to receive the award tomorrow.”

She avoided answering any questions about her ongoing divorce from Icardi and proceeded to her hotel at Ciragan Palace Kempinski.

On the night of the event, she wore a backless pink gown with a long train, which caused her some difficulty navigating the venue. Throughout the evening, she shared multiple posts on social media, documenting her experience at the luxury location.

However, her win quickly became a topic of discussion. Turkish singer Gulben Ergen was among those questioning the decision, writing on social media, “We are curious about the jury that selected Wanda Nara as ‘Woman of the Year’ at the Best of Europe Awards and the criteria they used.”

While Nara’s acceptance speech focused on strong women, allegations surfaced online suggesting that she had paid for the award. In response, she posted a lighthearted remark on Instagram, saying, “I’m returning home with love, job offers, and less money because some say I bought an award,” followed by laughing emojis.

Wanda Nara’s comments on speculation about her acting career in Türkiye

During the ceremony, Nara expressed her affection for Türkiye, stating, “Türkiye is my second home. This award is for strong women.”

Later that night, she shared a video with her close friend, hairstylist Kennys Palacios, saying, “They want me to do a TV series in Türkiye. I have a very important meeting.” This statement led to speculation in Argentine media that she had received a significant project offer.

Some reports suggested she was considering relocating to Istanbul for work opportunities, with one outlet claiming, “The major project offer has reignited speculation about Wanda Nara moving to Türkiye permanently.”

Mauro Icardi’s presence in Istanbul: New life with China Suarez in Istanbul

Nara’s presence in Istanbul coincided with a major Super Lig match between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, a game that also brought Icardi back to the city.

The two have been embroiled in a highly publicized divorce, with Nara now in a relationship with Argentine rapper L-Gante, while Icardi is reportedly dating actress China Suarez.

Prior to the award ceremony, reports emerged that L-Gante had been invited to attend the Galatasaray-Fenerbahce match as a guest of Fenerbahce. One of L-Gante’s close associates, Luis Perdomo, stated on America TV that the singer had received an invitation to watch the match from a luxury box.

However, Fenerbahce Vice President Acun Ilicali later denied these claims, writing on social media, “The rumors about us bringing guests from Argentina are completely false, just like many other claims made about me this week.”

Nara’s time in Türkiye was not without controversy. She and L-Gante were rumored to have had a private meeting with Salt Bae, the famous Turkish chef known for his connections with various Argentine celebrities. Additionally, reports suggested that security measures were tightened for L-Gante’s visit, with 12 security personnel assigned to him upon arrival.

Wanda Nara bids farewell to Istanbul, Mauro Icardi stays

Despite the controversies, Nara appeared to have enjoyed her time in Istanbul. Before departing for Argentina, she shared an emotional farewell post to her 17.5 million Instagram followers.

“I always thought Italy was my second home, but what can I say about Istanbul? At every corner, there’s a kiss, a hug…” she wrote, accompanied by several photos of her stay. She also reflected on her experience at the Galatasaray stadium, where she attended the derby match alongside her new partner.

In an affectionate post, Icardi wrote, “May the waves of the Bosphorus whisper promises of love as we embrace along its shore China.” He further described Istanbul as “a city where history and magic intertwine, where a part of me will always belong.”

With speculation continuing over her future in Türkiye, Nara has left the door open to potential new projects. “I want to sincerely thank everyone for always thinking of me. If my schedule and my children allow, they will witness the true Turkish drama,” she wrote, hinting at possible acting opportunities.