Gleneagles could host the Ryder Cup next year due to the current terrorist threat in France, it has been claimed.
It has been reported in The Scottish Sun that American security chiefs are so concerned about the latest Islamic State Jihadist atrocity to hit Paris that they would like the world renowned tournament moved from the French capital to Perthshire.
It’s understood that talks had already taken place with a view to the 2018 Ryder Cup returning to Gleneagles prior to French police killing Ziyed Ben Belgacem, 39, at Orly Airport in Paris on Friday.
France has been in a “state of emergency” since the 2015 Charlie Hebdo atrocity and the Bataclan massacre in Paris, which took place in the same year. This latest episode has increased the anxiety of security chiefs in America, who hope Gleneagles can step in and host the prestigious Ryder Cup next year.
The 2018 tournament is due to be held at Le Golf National’s Albatros course on the outskirts of Paris.
A security source told the Sun: “The plan is in place and ready to go at the request of the Americans.
“America was already incredibly nervous about the Ryder Cup being held in France before the latest terrorist event.”
Another security source who is also believed to have heard of the dramatic plan to switch venues for the golf tournament added: “America believes some European countries don’t have a handle on the terror threat and they may not risk it.
“But nothing is confirmed yet. It all depends on what happens with Islamic State and Iraq over the next year and the knock-on effect for mainland Europe.
“There is seen to be a disjointed approach to security in mainland Europe. The Americans are keeping a very close eye on things.”
A Police Scotland spokesman said the force didn’t wish to comment on the matter.
Regarded as one of the world’s biggest sporting events, the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles boosted Scotland’s economy by more than £100 million.
