Epsom Derby 2026 FAQs - Everything You Need To Know
The 2026 Epsom Derby will take place on Saturday, 6 June at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey. Recognized as Britain's richest and most prestigious flat race for three-year-old colts and fillies, the Derby features a Group 1 contest over one mile, four furlongs and six yards, with around £1.5 million in prize money. Legendary trainer Aidan O'Brien, already a record 11-time Derby winner, is set to field Chester Vase winner Benvenuto Cellini among other strong contenders. Fans can catch the action live on ITV Racing and Racing TV or stream online.
- The 2026 Epsom Derby is set for June 6 at Epsom Downs
- Aidan O'Brien leads contenders with Benvenuto Cellini
- Race offers £1.5 million prize and is broadcast live on ITV & Racing TV
When is the 2026 Epsom Derby?
The 2026 Epsom Derby will take place on Saturday, 6 June 2026. The race is due to start at 4:00pm.
What is the Epsom Derby?
The Derby Stakes is Britain's most prestigious flat race and one of the most famous horse races in the world. Run at Epsom Downs Racecourse, the Derby is a Group 1 contest for three-year-old colts and fillies and is widely regarded as the ultimate test of a young thoroughbred.
Where is the Epsom Derby run?
The race is held at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, England.
What distance is the Epsom Derby?
The Derby is run over one mile, four furlongs and six yards.
Who can run in the Epsom Derby?
The race is open to three-year-old colts and fillies, although fillies often contest the Oaks instead.
What type of race is the Epsom Derby?
The Derby is a Group 1 flat race and one of the five British Classics.
Who won the Epsom Derby?
Aidan O'Brien claimed another victory in the Epsom Derby in 2025, as Wayne Lordan rode Lambourn to an impressive victory.
Which trainers have the best record in the Epsom Derby?
Aidan O'Brien is the most successful trainer in the history of the race, having won the race 11 times.
Who will Aidan O'Brien run in the 2026 Derby?
Chester Vase winner, Benvenuto Cellini is Aidan O'Brien's best chance in the 2026 Epsom Derby. O'Brien will also run Pierre Bonnard, Action and Christmas Day.
Why is the Epsom Derby so important?
The race is widely regarded as the premier middle-distance contest for three-year-olds and is often used as the benchmark for greatness in flat racing.
Which horses usually run in the Epsom Derby?
The field is typically made up of leading three-year-olds who have excelled in races such as the 2000 Guineas, Dante Stakes, Chester Vase, Ballysax Stakes and Leopardstown Derby Trial.
How much prize money is the Epsom Derby worth?
The race is usually worth around £1.5 million in total prize money.
Which TV channel will show the 2026 Epsom Derby?
The race is expected to be shown live on ITV Racing and Racing TV.
Can I watch the Epsom Derby online?
Yes. Fans can watch the race live on ITVX, Racing TV and bookmaker streaming services where available.
Are there any famous winners of the Epsom Derby?
Some of the race's most celebrated winners include Sea The Stars, Shergar, Nijinsky and Galileo.
Can a horse win both the 2000 Guineas and the Derby?
Yes. Several outstanding colts have completed the Guineas-Derby double, including Sea The Stars, Camelot and Nashwan.
When was the Epsom Derby first run?
The Derby was first run in 1780 and was named after Edward Smith-Stanley, the 12th Earl of Derby. It has since become one of the most influential races in world racing, with many countries creating their own versions of the Derby.
What is the Epsom course like?
Epsom is one of the most demanding tracks in the sport, featuring sharp turns, significant undulations and a pronounced camber in the home straight.
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