Turkey is on the last lap of its race against the clock to pull together one of the biggest sporting events in Europe.
The Mediterranean Games were controversially switched to the Turkish city of Mersin just one year ago, and now, six months out from the opening ceremony, officials are batting away speculation that facilities will not be completed in time.
“The preparation process which normally takes 7 years has been compressed into 18 months,” said Sports Minister Suat Kilic on his official website. But, like other Turkish officials, he is confident. “We will make it. There is no doubt about it.”
The Turkish government pushed hard to host the games, which are seen as important for the prestige of Mersin and the nation. Authorities hope that a successful Mediterranean Games will boost their bid for the 2020 Olympic Games to be held in Istanbul.
The Mediterranean Games are overseen by the International Olympic Committee and have been held every four years since 1951. At the games in June 2013, 4,000 athletes from 24 countries are expected to compete in 32 different sports including Paralympics.
Initially, the Greek towns of Volos-Larissa were awarded the hosting rights to the Mediterranean Games back in 2007, but then lost the rights in 2011 due to financial troubles. The controversial decision by the International Olympic Committee meant Mersin became the new host city.
