FIA summon Turkish sports chiefs

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2006

PARIS (AFP) — World motorsport's governing body has summoned Turkish sports chiefs for talks in Paris after an incident on the podium of the Istanbul Grand Prix led to a near diplomatic row. Sunday's race was won by Ferrari's Brazilian driver Felipe Massa, who was presented with the winner's trophy by Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.

The internationally recognised Greek Cypriot government -- which has no diplomatic relations with Turkey -- immediately protested the appearance of Talat, president of the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus (TRNC), which is recognized only by Ankara. The Federation International Automobile is keen to promote political neutrality. And FIA now wants an explanation from the Turkish sporting authorities. A statement by the said: "The National...