Turkey appeals against record F1 fine

DUBAI, Oct 10 (Reuters) Turkish Grand Prix organisers have appealed against a record 5 million dollar fine handed down last month after a podium controversy at the race in August, Formula One's governing body said.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said in a statement yesterday the appeal hearing would be held at its International Court of Appeal in Paris on November 7, with a decision expected the following day.

The furore erupted after Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat presented the winner's trophy to Ferrari's Felipe Massa at the race in Istanbul and was introduced to millions of viewers around the world as the 'President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus'.

Cyprus has been split since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded the northern part of the Mediterranean island after a brief, Greek-inspired coup. Only Turkey recognises the north.

The FIA's World Motor Sport Council found the National Sporting Authority of Turkey (TOSFED) and the organisers of the Turkish Grand Prix (MSO) guilty of breaking FIA statutes, the international sporting code and Formula One regulations and imposed the fine jointly.

However, the race remained on next year's calendar. Turkey is also hosting a round of the world rally championship this weekend.

REUTERS AY BD0956