Since then, its appealto Islamic values and social service organizations have caused its popularityto grow to the point where, in 1997, rivalries between the secular parties prevented them from forming a governing coalition and the nation was led for the first time since Attaturk by a religious party.
The New York exhibition, known as "The Rumble on the Rails" and to be held at Grand Central Terminal, is designed to highlight the sport's international appeal and popularity.