A race born on the Bosphorus.

The story of its founder, its city and the trophy that carries each victory forward.

A letter from the founder.

Dear Friends,

Bosphorus Cup, after a 24 year journey, has become one of the world's top ten most recognized sailing races and is regarded as the most important sailing event in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Held in the unique setting of the Istanbul Strait before millions of spectators, with ship traffic suspended, the event brings together state of the art boats powered solely by wind for an exceptional racing experience.

Nearly 70 boats compete, with more than half of the participants coming from abroad, including some of Europe's best sailors. Widely covered by international media, the races reach over 10 million people on social platforms.

Positioned at the heart of a major global city, the Bosphorus Cup provides a stage for elite athletes, professional sailing teams, and design driven race boats, while also offering strong promotional value for brands through its commercial partnerships.

Orhan Refik GorbonFounder of the Bosphorus Cup · Istanbul

The Bosphorus Cup fleet racing through Istanbul beneath a wide sky.

The Bosphorus Cup perpetual trophy in a studio portrait.

The perpetual trophy

The race continues through every winner.

The trophy is not the endpoint of one edition. It is the object that connects one winning crew to the next.

Designed by Can Yalman and produced in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar in 2004, it is awarded to the overall winner of the IRC classes. The official record names Bülent Atabay and the Dubois One Tonner Orient Express III as its first holder in 2002.

Designer: Can Yalman
Produced: Grand Bazaar · 2004
Honour: Overall IRC winner