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The Irish Derby Festival 2025 is nearing, and fans are in store for another captivating renewal in June, when Ireland’s most prestigious horse racing calendar event kicks off.
Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast, a newcomer fan, or you’re looking to bet on horse racing – on a platform like LSB IE, for example – the weekend of June 27th to June 29th is set to be a memorable occasion.
So, as we get ready for three days of action at the Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare, let’s take a look at what we can expect from the Festival and how this year’s schedule is looking.
Festival overview
Being Ireland’s premier flat racing event, the Irish Derby Festival attracts the finest three-year-old thoroughbreds from around the globe each year. The renewal will take place from Friday, 27th June to Sunday, 29th June, 2025.
As well as incredible races, attendees can indulge in live music, stylish fashion competitions, and a festive atmosphere that celebrates the rich heritage of Irish horse racing.
Of course, the main event on the Saturday is what fans are eager to watch – the one-mile, four-furlong flat race, the Irish Derby.
Racing schedule
Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming racing schedule for the three-day Festival.
Friday 27th June – Opening evening
The festival kicks off with an evening of competitive races, including the Corinthian Challenge in aid of the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. The schedule features:
- 16:50 – EBF Maiden
- 17:20 – O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey EBF Maiden
- 17:50 – JJ Mahon and Sons Handicap
- 18:25 – James Nolans Bar EBF Maiden
- 18:55 – Fitzpatricks Mercedes-Benz Handicap
- 19:30 – Silken Thomas and Lock 13 Apprentice Derby
- 20:00 – Maiden
- 20:30 – Corinthian Challenge
Saturday 28th June – Ladies Day
Aside from being a day dedicated to fashion, Saturday is highlighted by the Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes, alongside other notable races:
- 13:15 – Barronstown Stud EBF Maiden
- 13:45 – Airlie Stud Stakes (Group 2)
- 14:20 – Jebel Ali Racecourse and Stables Anglesey Stakes (Group 3)
- 14:55 – Al Basti Equiworld Dubai International Stakes (Group 3)
- 15:30 – Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes (Group 1)
- 16:05 – Kildare Village Ladies Derby
- 16:40 – Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes Handicap
- 17:15 – Fitzpatrick’s Mercedes-Benz EBF Maiden
Sunday 29th June – Derby Day
The festival culminates with the prestigious Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, but it also includes some other action-packed races:
- 13:20 – Dubai Duty Free Premier Handicap
- 13:55 – Dubai Duty Free Premier Handicap
- 14:25 – Jebel Ali Racecourse and Stables Dash (Listed)
- 14:55 – Dubai Duty Free Rockingham Premier Handicap
- 15:30 – Colm McLoughlin Celebration Stakes (Listed)
- 16:10 – Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1)
- 16:50 – Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort Ragusa Premier Handicap
- 17:20 – GAIN Summer Fillies Premier Handicap
- 17:55 – Dubai Duty Free Stayers Handicap
Expectations and highlights
The Irish Derby Festival isn’t just about racing, but it remains a celebration of Irish culture and style, as well as the storied history of flat racing. Attendees can look forward to:
- Live music: Evening performances in Champions Hall on Friday and Sunday.
- Fashion competitions: Stylish attendees have the chance to win phenomenal prizes on Saturday and Sunday for best dressed.
- Family fun: Activities and entertainment suitable for all ages throughout the weekend.
- Irish culture: The chance to explore the beautiful country of Ireland, including surrounding sights as well as the nearby city of Dublin.
Plan your visit
Whether you’re a racing aficionado or a first-time attendee, the Irish Derby Festival 2025 is set to be an unforgettable blend of sport, style, and Irish hospitality. Here’s to another memorable renewal.