"European Championship Bid Asks Europe if It’s Ready for Turkey
By ROB HUGHES
Published: May 24, 2010
European soccer could this week accept Turkey as a major part of its territory long before the European Union does so politically.
Turkey is one of three bidders to host the 24-nation European Championship finals in 2016. And while the alternatives, France and Italy, represent traditional homes to the event, their plans depend in large measure on private financial support, while Turkey says its bid will be completely underwritten by the government."
More:Global Soccer - European Championship Bid Asks Europe if It’s Ready for Turkey - NYTimes.com