Day 1: Leopardstown

Day 1 of Irish Champions Festival kicks off at Leopardstown, featuring world class racing, live music, premium sports experiences and unmissable entertainment.

The racing action is headlined by the Group 1 Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes, one of the most prestigious races in the world. Alongside it, five thrilling Group races promise to showcase the very best Irish and international flat horses—expect world-class performances on the track from start to finish.

The Jockey Cam, VR Experience: Step into the shoes of a jockey and feel the adrenaline as you race towards the finish line! With the VR Jockey Cam, you’ll get a jockey’s-eye view of the action and compete with friends in an immersive virtual reality experience.

Champion Style Awards: The style competition returns, sponsored by Louis Copeland & Sons and the Ardán Collective. Spotting starts 12.15pm at the Champions Garden Party. Final judged by Louis Copeland & Sarah Kate Byrne at 4.30pm. 

Prizes - Men: Winner – made-to-measure Louis Copeland suit (€1,000). Two runners-up – bespoke shirts (€250 each).

Ladies: Ardán Collective prizes, including a London weekend for two at The Exhibitionist Hotel (flights, breakfast & cocktails included).

Live Music to Keep the Party Going: Last year, the post-race atmosphere soared with a singalong by Mimi Lane, a sensational set from Complete Madness Tribute, and DJs keeping the crowd dancing all day. This year’s music line-up is set to be just as spectacular—stay tuned for the announcement!

Raceday Expert Panel: Before the first race, join our Raceday Expert Tipster Panel as they preview the day’s action. Hear insider tips, discover how to pick a winner, and get ahead with expert guidance. Panel details coming soon!

See the Trophy Before It’s Won: Don’t miss the chance to get up close to the Group 1 Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes Trophy. Snap a photo with this iconic prize before it’s presented to the winner!

How To Get There: The venue is ideally located in Dublin and easily accessible, with excellent transport links. Free shuttle bus service from Sandyford Luas Station. More info to come.

Day One promises world-class racing, unforgettable entertainment, and an atmosphere like no other. Join us at Leopardstown to kick off the festival in style!

Irish Champions Festival kicks off with a prestigious nine-race card featuring five Group races including the The Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes, sixth in the IFHA World's top 100 races in 2023.

The Coolmore America ‘Justify’ Matron Stakes, ranked as the world’s best fillies and mares’ race for the past number of years, are the highlights on the opening afternoon at Leopardstown.

For last year's results at Leopardstown, click here.

Timetable

12:15 PM – Gates Open
2:15 PM – The Ballylinch Stud Irish EBF Ingabelle Stakes (Listed)
2:50 PM – The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Sovereign Path Premier Handicap
3:20 PM – The KPMG Champions Juvenile Stakes (Group 2)
3:50 PM – The CMG Group Stakes (Group 3)
4:25 PM – The Coolmore America 'Justify' Matron Stakes (Group 1)
4:55 PM – The Tonybet Solonaway Stakes (Group 2)
5:30 PM – The Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes (Group 1)
6:05 PM – The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Petingo Premier Handicap
6:40 PM – The HKJC World Pool Autumn Fillies Premier Handicap

Last Chance to save 15% with the Early Bird offer!

General Admission

- Adult - General Admission Advanced Ticket (€30 Early Bird)

- Senior/Student (€20 Early Bird) 

- Child - 14 and under (Free!)

- Weekend Ticket (€50 Early Bird)

Premium Experiences 

- 1888 Restaurant

- Pavilion Mezzanine

- The Real Deal

- Champions Pavilion

Please contact [email protected] or call  on 01-2890500 for any queries.