Kisber was a powerfully built[1] bay horse, bred at the Hungarian Imperial Stud from thoroughbreds which had been imported from England.

Mineral won several minor races and, before her export to Hungary, produced the St Leger winner Wenlock.

Kisber was sent to the sales as a yearling and bought for approximately £500[1] by the Turkish-born brothers Alexander and Hector Baltazzi.

[6] As a two-year-old, Kisber showed outstanding ability in home gallops, including trial races in which he gave weight and decisive beatings to high-class stable companions.

The rumours originated from the difficult financial position of his owners: the Baltazzi brothers were heavily in debt and it seemed possible that Kisber, as their most valuable asset, would be seized by their creditors.

[8] The Baltazzi brothers financial position was eased considerably: apart from the prize-money, they took an estimated £100,000 in winning bets.

[12] A few days after his win at Epsom, Kisber was sent to Longchamp for the Grand Prix de Paris on 11 June, the most important race in France.

Kisber started favourite for the 3000m race in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd which included the President of France.

[13] Following an investigation by the French racing officials it was declared that he would not be considered an English horse in the event of his victory.

[11] There was some dissatisfaction with the result from those who felt that Kisber had not shown his true form[17] and that his owners had never intended him to win.