Star power and race-day elegance at the 100th Gazi Derby
The legendary Gazi Derby celebrated its 100th edition at Veliefendi Racecourse, turning the historic track into both a sporting arena and an impromptu red carpet. While the spotlight on the turf belonged to “Bay Nalçakan,” ridden to victory by celebrated jockey Halis Karataş, the stands were equally captivating as well‑known names from television, cinema and social media arrived in carefully curated race‑day looks.
The centenary atmosphere gave the day an extra layer of glamour. For many of the celebrities in attendance, the Gazi Derby was not just about betting slips and photo finishes, but about embracing a tradition that blends high society, fashion and the thrill of competition. The grandstands, usually dominated by racing fans, turned into a catwalk of sophisticated summer outfits, statement accessories and polished styling.
Among those following the race from the tribunes were actor Yağız Can Konyalı and his fiancée Derya Şensoy. The couple drew attention with their coordinated yet understated elegance, opting for clean lines and a relaxed but refined look suited to the warm June weather. Their presence underscored how the Gazi Derby has become a favored event for couples looking to enjoy a stylish day out in a setting that mixes nostalgia and modern glamour.
Elit Andaç Çam also took her place in the stands, choosing a minimal yet chic appearance that aligned perfectly with the daytime nature of the event. Simple silhouettes, natural makeup and discreet accessories highlighted a broader trend at this year’s race: effortless refinement rather than over‑the‑top extravagance. Many attendees seemed to embrace the idea that true elegance lies in details rather than excess.
Ceren Benderlioğlu brought a more dramatic touch to the tribunes, balancing race‑course appropriateness with a screen‑ready presence. Her style echoed the classic race‑day codes-structured cuts, well‑chosen fabrics, a meticulous hairdo-while still feeling contemporary. The overall result fit seamlessly with the celebratory mood of the 100th running, where tradition and modern celebrity culture met in a single frame.
Actor Ekin Koç chose a look that blended casual masculinity with tailored precision. Crisp shirts, light jackets and carefully selected accessories were popular among male celebrities at the event, and Koç’s outfit embodied that direction. The men in the stands largely stayed away from overly formal evening wear, instead favoring smart daytime ensembles that allowed them to move comfortably between the boxes, paddock and betting counters.
Farah Zeynep Abdullah, one of the most recognizable faces in the crowd, stood out with a refined, feminine style aligned with the timeless aesthetics of major racing events worldwide. Her look, though not ostentatious, carried a sense of old‑world charm, reinforcing the feeling that the Gazi Derby is more than a race; it is a cultural ritual where etiquette, posture and presentation still matter.
Saadet Işıl Aksoy added another note of sophisticated grace to the tribunes. Her preference for subtle elegance, soft colors and clean design lines mirrored a broader shift in race‑day fashion toward pieces that photograph beautifully without overshadowing the main event. As cameras panned across the stands, her composed presence helped define the visual narrative of the day: calm, stylish and self‑assured.
Lifestyle and gastronomy figure Melodi Elbirliler Türkmen attended with her husband, chef and television personality Arda Türkmen. The duo reflected the modern, urban side of Istanbul’s social scene, combining comfort with a polished aesthetic. Their choice of coordinated but relaxed outfits matched the festive, day‑long nature of the derby, where guests move between their seats, hospitality areas and social gatherings while keeping an eye on the track.
Beyond individual names, the 100th Gazi Derby showcased a clear set of fashion and styling trends. Light fabrics, pastel and neutral color palettes, and tailored yet breathable silhouettes dominated the grandstands. Classic accessories associated with race days-structured bags, delicate jewelry, refined sunglasses-were present, while more theatrical elements like oversized hats and bold headpieces appeared in a more restrained form than in past years.
The centenary edition also reinforced the Gazi Derby’s role as a barometer of social and cultural taste. Celebrities did not just come to be seen; they helped define what an elegant day at the races looks like in today’s Istanbul. Their choices suggested a move away from purely showy looks toward outfits that balance comfort, tradition and a modern, cosmopolitan sensibility.
On the sporting side, Bay Nalçakan’s victory under Halis Karataş added a memorable chapter to the race’s history, but the images that will endure from this 100th running extend beyond the finish line. Photographs of the grandstands-filled with actors, influencers and artists in carefully thought‑out looks-will serve as style references for future editions. For fashion observers and racing fans alike, this year’s Gazi Derby confirmed its dual identity: part top‑tier sporting event, part open‑air style showcase.
In the end, the 100th Gazi Derby at Veliefendi managed to unite three key elements: the excitement of a prestigious race, the emotional weight of a centenary celebration and the visual impact of celebrity elegance in the stands. As the sun set over the track and the crowds slowly dispersed, it was clear that the day would be remembered not only for Bay Nalçakan’s win, but also for the refined, modern and distinctly Istanbul look that the celebrities brought to the tribunes.