Horse racing is a popular and exciting sport that has a long history and is enjoyed by people all over the world. There are countless horse racing tracks located around the globe, but some are considered more prestigious and renowned than others.
Here is a look at some of the world’s most prestigious horse racing tracks.
Churchill Downs, Kentucky, USA:
Churchill Downs is perhaps the most recognized horse racing track in the world, and it is home to the Kentucky Derby, which is dubbed as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.” Churchill Downs has been in operation since 1875, and it is famous for its iconic twin spires and southern charm.
The racecourse is located in Louisville, Kentucky, and it hosts a variety of races throughout the calendar year. These include the Kentucky Oaks, the Stephen Foster Handicap, and the Clark Handicap.
Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mumbai, India
Founded in 1883, and located in Mumbai, India, Mahalaxmi has a rich history and is home to major racing events such as the Indian Derby and the Indian Oaks. Every year Indians place their bets and hope to strike it rich and in recent years, using online bookmakers is the preferred method.
You can place bets at the track, but using horse racing betting websites gives punters much more options ranging from better odds to in-play betting. However, before picking a bookmaker it’s beneficial to first visit a comparison site. These platforms help Indian players with key advice on playing legally and also assist by clearly defining different types of horse racing bets, like hi-5 and exacta.
In addition to horse racing, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse also hosts a range of other events, including concerts and exhibitions. Its central location makes it a convenient and popular destination for both racing enthusiasts and those looking to experience the vibrant culture of Mumbai.
Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire, England:
Ascot Racecourse is a world-renowned horse racing track located in Berkshire, England. Each year, Royal Ascot takes place, which is attended by members of the royal family and other high-society figures.
Ascot Racecourse was built in 1711, and hosts the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes and the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, in front of thousands of fans every year.
Flemington Racecourse, Victoria, Australia:
Located in Melbourne, Australia, Flemington Racecourse is home to the Melbourne Cup, which is nicknamed “The Race That Stops a Nation.” This historic track was founded in 1840 and the memorable “Flemington rose” logo is visible around the track and in the grandstands.
Flemington is also the home of many other races, including the Australian Cup, the VRC Oaks, and the Victoria Derby.
Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey, England:
Epsom Downs Racecourse is located in Epsom, Surrey, in England, and it is famous for the internationally renowned Derby Stakes, which is one of the five Classics of English horse racing.
The racetrack held its first race in 1661 and every year it hosts the Coronation Cup and the Epsom Oaks.
Meydan Racecourse, Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Meydan Racecourse is a state-of-the-art horse racing track located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The racetrack is home to the Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horse race with a purse of $12 million.
Meydan Racecourse was constructed in 2010, and it’s a jockey’s favorite because of its wide, sweeping turns and long straightaways. The track hosts the Dubai Golden Shaheen and the Dubai Turf races and draws huge crowds from neighboring gulf states.
A day at the racetrack is often listed as one of the best things to do on holiday in the UAE. Even though it’s illegal to bet because of strict Islamic laws, the experience will stay with you for a lifetime.
Longchamp Racecourse, Paris, France:
Nestled in the beautiful Bois de Boulogne in Paris, France, Longchamp Racecourse hosts the iconic Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, which is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. This historic track has been in operation since 1857 and is known for its challenging course and picturesque setting.
Longchamp hosts some of the biggest events in horse racing, including the Prix du Jockey Club and the Prix de Diane.