The Irish Champions Festival is one of the sporting events of the year, bringing together elite global horse racing and some stylish guests …
One of the sporting events of the year is the Irish Champions Festival, which takes place at Leopardstown and The Curragh on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13. It brings together elite global horse racing, with over €5 million in prize money across the weekend.
This year’s programme features seven Group 1 races among the 17 races and includes the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown and the Comer Group International Irish St Leger at The Curragh – the last Classic Flat race of the season.
The launch event for the Festival took place at Lennan’s Yard, Dublin. Hosted by avid racing fan Hector Ó hEochagáin, guests included Angela Scanlon, racing stars Dylan Browne McMonagle and Colin Keane, tailor Louis Copeland and entrepreneur and Forbes 30 Under 30 2026 Honouree Dr Aghogho Okpara.
Suzanne Eade, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland, was also in attendance and commented: “The festival represents the pinnacle of flat racing in Ireland, showcasing our world-class horses, trainers, jockeys and racecourses. Upgraded to feature seven Group 1 races this year, it is a brilliant opportunity to bring racing fans, newcomers and the wider community together in anticipation of one of the most exciting weekends in the Irish sporting calendar.”
Click into the gallery below to see some of the guests in attendance …
Photography: Andres Poveda
To buy tickets and plan your day at the races, visit irishchampionsfestival.ie
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