Istanbul claims success in grand prix bid
Istanbul has been chosen by Bernie Ecclestone as the venue for a Turkish Grand Prix in 2005, according to the Turkish Federation of Automobile Sports (TOMSFED)
The city was one of three in Turkey competing for the right to host a grand prix, alongside Izmir and Antalya. Ecclestone toured all three potential sites in August, but is said to have favoured Istanbul because of its global stature and the ease with which it can be reached by road from other parts of Europe.
Announcing the deal, TOMSFED quoted Ecclestone. He said: "I have decided upon Istanbul. Not only is it a major city known throughout the world, but what swayed me was the logistics for the teams. Now we need to finalise the commercial issues and the TV rights."
Development of a new circuit in Istanbul is set to begin shortly. Circuit designer Hermann Tilke is to visit the site for the new track next week to begin planning, and is aiming to have his plans finalised by March.
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