The 2026 horse racing season promises a fascinating journey for fans in Britain and beyond. From March through to December, there are moments that will capture the imagination of racegoers, commentators and punters alike. The spring jump season starts with Cheltenham in March, maintaining its reputation as one of the most special events within the sport. Flat racing takes part through the summer with the Derby and Royal Ascot before a thrilling autumn gets underway with the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe drawing the attention of fans worldwide. Beyond the big names and dates, there is a new generation of horses and jockeys ready to make their mark, ensuring a compelling year ahead. So today, BoyleSports, the home of BOYLE lotto, will be taking a look at 7 things to look out for in the 2025 horse racing calendar.
The Horses to Watch Out For
Across 2026, there will be horses whose performances turn heads and dominate discussions. In national hunt racing, stalwarts such as Inothewayurthinkin and Marine Nationale are expected to be at the sharp end at Cheltenham, where the Gold Cup and Champion Chase always attract the best of the division. On the flat, there will be emerging three‑year‑olds contesting races like the Epsom Derby, the most prestigious classic in Britain, with a prize fund lifted to £2 million. Performances in key races will define reputations and shape narratives for the entire season.
Jockeys Who Could Be Set Up For a Breakthrough Season
On the flat, jockeys such as Oisin Murphy and Billy Loughnane are expected to shine and contest some of the greats, with Loughnane already setting various records in previous seasons. It could be the beginning of a rivalry between the two rising stars that might evolve this summer at a few major meetings. In national hunt racing, the competition remains tight, much like it had last year, with experienced riders such as Sean Bowen and Harry Skelton continuing to show no sign of slowing down when it comes to their skill and dominant racing form.
2026’s Must Watch Races
The calendar is anchored by dates that every racing fan will have marked. Cheltenham Festival takes place in March and combines the best of the jumps season over four days at Prestbury Park. The Randox Grand National in April has historic appeal and brings a unique spectacle at Aintree. Flat racing is usually associated with the Epsom Derby in June, followed by the infamous Royal Ascot, both of which showcase some of the most elite horses competing in massive contests. Autumn offers one of Europe’s top events, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, known as one of the richest races, and the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, both attracting worldwide attention.
Trainers Who Could Dominate the Year
The influence of trainers on the season will be profound as they bring horses to peak form for key engagements. In Britain and Ireland, established figures in national hunt racing will seek to add major victories at Cheltenham and in the autumn schedule. On the flat, trainers who are established when it comes to three-year-olds and older horses will more than likely be targeting the Derby and the important group races throughout the course of summer and autumn. Intelligent trainers have the ability to place their horses in the right races that could be the difference between a close contest or success and a disappointing season.
Rising Stars From the Spring Prep Races
The early part of the season often gives clues to horses and jockeys capable of big achievements later in the year. Cheltenham Festival itself showcases novices and established performers whose form early in the season sets patterns for March. Spring also sees key trials and preparatory fixtures for flat horses heading towards classics like the 2000 Guineas and Derby. Performances in these races can signal which contenders are ready to step up to the highest level once summer arrives, adding depth to the season’s narrative.
Summer Stakes That Could Shock Fans
Summer racing often has a habit of changing the shape of the season. Royal Ascot in June provides a unique platform where proven performers and emerging talent meet in fiercely competitive races with significant prize money at stake. As the summer progresses through July and August, top meetings across Britain and Europe place fresh demands on horses, particularly in races that reward both pace and endurance. Strong performances during this period can elevate a horse’s standing and give jockeys the chance to demonstrate judgement and composure, while also shaping decisions about autumn targets and overseas opportunities.
End of Year Championship Awards
As autumn turns to winter, the racing year culminates in championship events and awards that reflect performance across the season. Major international flat races in October and November will draw connections from around the world seeking prestigious victories. In Britain, national hunt racing continues with key fixtures in the autumn and early winter, leading into planning for the next season. Awards for horses, jockeys and trainers often follow these final contests, bringing closure to a year that began with Cheltenham in March and embraced global competition.
