Turkey takes extreme security measures

Turkey has taken intensive security measures for the Formula 1 Grand Prix race to be held in Turkey over the weekend, officials said. The Istanbul Security Directorate will commission 2,000 police officers around the Formula 1 track and spectators will be allowed to enter the area only after being scanned using metal detectors.

“We are aware that there are still some deficiencies, but I don’t think they will influence the course of the race negatively. Minor deficiencies occur in all events. We do not expect big problems to emerge. This will be a very exciting race and everyone will leave here happily," Turkey Automobile Sports Federation President Mümtaz TahincioÄŸlu said.

Turkey sees the Formula 1 race organization as a good opportunity to contribute to the country’s tourism and publicity. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan, who visited the track last week, said the important thing to consider about holding such events was not the expenses incurred, but how they will contribute to the country’s publicity and introduction to foreigners.