THE Yugoslav runner Magrana was the first winner of an international race in Turkey when, in 1990, he took the Istanbul Stakes. This was followed a year later by five races for overseas runners and Lester Piggott was among the winners, partnering Lucky Guest to victory. The son of Be My Guest was later to stand at stud in Ireland.

The Bosphorus Cup and Topkapi Trophy were given black type in 2003 and given group status, by international standards, six years later. They were joined by the Istanbul Trophy in 2013.