Ascot's programme and prize-money changes leave British and Irish rivals with difficult questions to answer
Boosting King George prize-money to £1.5 million is a welcome move as Ascot makes a statement of intent
Jump racing across Britain and Ireland was abandoned on Saturday due to frozen tracks, snow has started to fall and even the hardiest posties are shunning shorts. Against that sort of chilly backdrop, top-class summer Flat racing can feel like an impossibly distant treat. Thankfully, Ascot has delivered a little sunshine.
Like the weather, British racing's financial situation is far from rosy, as evidenced by the Jockey Club's prize-money freeze for 2025. Ascot therefore deserves praise for a prize-money announcement that is equally a statement of intent.
The racecourse's executive annual contribution will increase by more than seven per cent to £10.1 million. A not inconsiderable chunk of that money will be devoted to what is not only Ascot's most prestigious prize but also Britain's most important all-aged Flat race, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, whose purse will rise from £1.25m to £1.5m. In addition, the connections of horses who run in the contest – with the exception of supplementary entries – will be refunded all entry fees.
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Published on inLee Mottershead
Last updated
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