The Irish Champions Festival is one of the standout fixtures in the European flat racing calendar, drawing top-class horses, jockeys, and trainers to compete across two days of elite competition.
This year, the final day takes place at the Curragh on Sunday, September 14, featuring four Group 1 contests that promise to shape the remainder of the season.
With horse racing odds already forming in the ante-post markets, fans and punters are turning their attention to the headline events. Below, we’ve pulled together the key info ahead of the major action — including the Moyglare Stud Stakes, Flying Five Stakes, Vincent O’Brien National Stakes, and the Irish St. Leger.
Moyglare Stud Stakes (Group 1 – 7f, 2yo fillies)
A pivotal race for two-year-old fillies, the Moyglare Stud Stakes offers an early glimpse at potential Classic contenders. Run over seven furlongs, it has an impressive roll of honour featuring the likes of Love, Discoveries, and Tahiyra — all of whom went on to secure Group 1 victories at three.
This year’s renewal is expected to be dominated once again by Irish powerhouses like Aidan O’Brien and Dermot Weld, with the likes Beautify and Courtly holding early entries for the local trainers.
Although British yards, like Karl Burke, George Boughey and Charlie Johnson, may send challengers with Guineas aspirations. It’s a race where raw talent often prevails, but racecraft and stamina are also tested.
Flying Five Stakes (Group 1 – 5f, 3yo+)
Sprinting stars collide in the Flying Five Stakes, Ireland’s only Group 1 over the minimum trip. It’s a win-and-you’re-in race for the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint, making it a valuable international target — and a battleground for Irish and British speedsters alike.
Recent editions have been dominated by horses with proven Group-level form over 5f, like Bradsell and Highfield Princess.
Expect seasoned sprinters and course specialists to feature prominently in the market, with the likes of Bucanero Fuerte and Arizona Blaze both boasting early entries for the Amo Racing team and Adrian Murray.
Vincent O’Brien National Stakes (Group 1 – 7f, 2yo colts & geldings)
The National Stakes is Ireland’s premier two-year-old colts’ race and frequently features the best juveniles from Ballydoyle and beyond. Previous winners like Native Trail, Pinatubo, and Thunder Moon have gone on to top the 2,000 Guineas betting the following spring.
Aidan O’Brien, who is closing in on Vincent O’Brien’s record of 15 wins in this contest, often targets this race with his leading colt, and 2025 should be no exception. While form can be tricky to assess this early in the year, winning here is a strong indicator of Group 1 potential.
Irish St. Leger (Group 1 – 1m6f, 3yo+)
The Irish St. Leger is the staying highlight of the day and uniquely open to both three-year-olds and older horses. This gives established stayers a chance to shine alongside potential new blood stepping up in trip after campaigns over shorter distances.
Past winners include the likes of Vinnie Roe and the legendary Kyprios – horses that excelled both domestically and internationally. Expect a tactical race where stamina, experience, and timing all play a role.
