Terrorist threat could see venue changed

Gleneagles is being lined up as potential host course due to concerns over atrocities in France

Gleneagles could host the Ryder Cup next year due to the current terrorist threat in France, it has been claimed.

American security chiefs are understood to be so concerned about the latest Islamic State Jihadist atrocity to hit Paris that they would like the golf tournament moved from the French capital to the Perthshire resort – scene of the 2014 Ryder Cup.

It is understood that talks had already taken place with a view to the 2018 Ryder Cup returning to Gleneagles prior to French police shooting and killing terrorist Ziyed Ben Belgacem, 39, at Orly Airport in Paris on Saturday.

France has been in a ‘state of emergency’ since the 2015 Charlie Hebdo atrocity and the Bataclan massacre in Paris, which took place the same year.

The 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.

An anonymous security source told The Scottish Sun on Sunday: “The plan is in place and ready to go

There is seen to be a disjointed approach to security in mainland Europe

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.”

Security was increased in Paris at the weekend following the shooting at Orly Airport with counter-terrorism officers brought in to protect the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

A Police Scotland spokesman said the force did not wish to comment regarding the possible move.

And a representative for Gleneagles confirmed they have not been approached about the matter.

Meanwhile, a VisitScotland spokesman said: “There have been no discussions with Ryder Cup Europe about any contingency plans to stage the 2018 Ryder Cup in Scotland. Plans are in place to stage a number of major golf events at Gleneagles and across Scotland in the coming years but the Ryder Cup is not one of them.”

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.

Ian Poulter tees off at the first during the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.