The Jockey Club has unveiled several major updates both on and off the track for the Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom Downs Racecourse, set to take effect in 2026. These improvements are part of an extensive effort to rejuvenate the world-renowned race, featuring alterations to the race schedule, boosted prize funds, and enhanced experiences for attendees throughout the two-day event.
Key updates include a rise in the Betfred Derby prize money to £2 million, making it the richest race in Britain, and relocating the Coolmore Coronation Cup to Saturday while more than doubling its prize to £1 million. The festival will showcase the Coolmore Coronation Cup, Betfred Dash, and Betfred Derby consecutively on Saturday, delivering an intense 90 minutes of racing excitement. An additional £1.375 million in prize money will be distributed over both days, positioning the Derby Day as the UK’s second most lucrative race day.
The festival is also introducing initiatives to welcome younger fans, allowing free admission for under-18s in general admission on both days, free hospitality for children under 12, and discounts for teens 12-17. Free parking for all participants at Epsom Downs will be available, along with newly installed covered “grandstand” seating at The Hill’s final furlong, offering an unprecedented view of the race. Enhancements include a new covered grandstand area and improved hospitality near the iconic victory post, as well as the Derbyfest fan zone at The Hill, operated with event specialists Queensbury to increase community engagement.
These changes stem from a six-month review incorporating feedback from race participants, members, and stakeholders, aimed at preserving Epsom Downs’ heritage as the home of the “Original Derby.” General Manager Jim Allen expressed pride in the history and significance of the Derby and emphasized the collaborative effort behind the upgrades, focusing on evolving the festival into a world-class experience that reflects its prestigious status.
On the racing side, alterations include expanding prize money distribution to more horses, permanently adopting a 72-hour declaration for the Derby, and adding a new Group 3 seven-furlong race, the Tattenham Corner Stakes. With a total prize pot nearing £5 million, the festival will feature seven Class 1 races, including three Group 1 events. The festival aims to maintain high competitive standards while appealing to a wider range of horses and participants.
Off the course, new entertainment and hospitality zones will be launched, including Galileo’s—a covered grandstand area with live music and after-parties—1780, a hospitality marquee with prime views near the victory post, and the Champion Seats, elevated seating along The Hill’s final stretch. Ladies Day will return with a new Style Awards format sponsored by Debenhams.
The Hill will remain an open and accessible area, free to all visitors, featuring the new Derbyfest family zone with live music and celebrity appearances. This inclusive space promises an engaging atmosphere for fans of all ages, with free parking and opportunities to interact with racing personalities.
Andrew Cooper, Head of Horse Racing at Epsom Downs, stressed the importance of these developments for maintaining the Derby’s esteemed status and enhancing the racing quality across the festival. Support from key partners like Betfred, British Horseracing Authority, and Coolmore has been vital to these transformations. Legendary trainer Aidan O’Brien welcomed the increased investment and initiatives to attract younger fans, highlighting the Derby’s central role in training and breeding.
Epsom Downs’ General Manager Jim Allen reiterated the commitment to accessibility, family-friendly experiences, and creating memorable moments for visitors, emphasizing the collaborative work behind the scenes. The 2026 Betfred Derby Festival will take place on June 5th and 6th, with full details and ticket information available on The Jockey Club’s website.
Fan Take: This announcement marks a thrilling evolution for one of horse racing’s most storied events, reinforcing the Betfred Derby Festival’s global prestige while broadening its appeal to new generations of fans. By enhancing both prize money and the fan experience, these changes promise to invigorate the sport and ensure the Derby remains a shining highlight of the racing calendar for years to come.
