Suleyman Demirel, a veteran politician and former President of Turkey, has been appointed head of the Istanbul Olympic Bidding Committee.
Demirel will have several obstacles to face in Turkey’s uphill battle for the 2008 Summer Olympics; severe congestion, poor services, and the fact that neighbouring Athens is hosting the 2004 Games.
But a confident Demirel told reporters “we will host the 2008 Olympics. All the people of Turkey should do their best and we will have everything ready”.
Istanbul was eliminated from contention to host the 2000 and 2004 Games.
