Turkish GP looking good - Ecclestone

Turkey is on course to host its first Formula One grand prix in August as scheduled, the sport's supremo Bernie Ecclestone said.

"We have seen what's been done, and we are very happy with things exactly the way they are," Ecclestone told reporters in response to speculation about delays.

The new $70 million Istanbul Speedpark, designed by German circuit architect Herman Tilke and located some 40 kilometres south of Turkey's largest city on the Asian side, makes its championship debut on August 21.

Ecclestone countered local criticism about mounting costs for hosting the elite event, saying Turkey had got a good deal and the grand prix would boost the EU-candidate country's standing in Europe.

Turkey considers the event a showcase for tourism, as well as other efforts to bring major international sporting events to the city.

The Muslim country is due to start EU membership talks in October.