India presents a captivating horse racing circuit. The sport has a celebrated history here. It spans more than two centuries. Each year, dedicated fans await the season’s start. The upcoming schedule promises fantastic equine contests from the allure of the Derby to strategic Guineas races. This guide helps you navigate the year’s key dates. Following the sport requires a reliable Indian horse racing calendar. This calendar is packed with major Indian horse racing events. These attract huge crowds and showcase the finest thoroughbreds. The sport is structured around major turf clubs. Each one hosts its own unique racing season. This creates a continuous spectacle for all enthusiasts.
In the table below we have highlighted the key dates of the biggest horse races in India in 2025.
| Date | Race | Winning Horse |
|---|---|---|
| 11/01/2025 | The Indian Oaks (Grade 1) | Psychic Star (jockey: Vivek G, trainer: P Shroff) |
| 04/02/2025 | The Indian Derby (Grade 1) | Ranquelino (jockey: A Sandesh, trainer: Darius R Byramji) |
| 22/09/2025 | The Indian St. Leger (Grade 1) | TBD |
| 12/10/2025 | The Pune Derby (Grade 1) | TBD |
| 14/12/2025 | The Indian 1000 Guineas (Grade 1) | TBD |
| 21/12/2025 | The Indian 2000 Guineas (Grade 1) | TBD |
Classics on the Indian Horse Racing Calendar 2025-26
The primary turf clubs operate in Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. Hyderabad and Kolkata also host significant races. Their seasons are planned to avoid heavy monsoons. This ensures the best possible racing surfaces. Followers often check horse race betting sites to see the odds. This adds a different dimension for many spectators. Still, the sport’s core appeal is the competition. The incredible skill of the jockeys is captivating. The sheer power of the thoroughbreds is inspiring. Keeping track via the Indian horse racing calendar is essential for fans.
The Indian Classics are the sport’s crown jewels. Participation is limited to three-year-old horses. These races are the ultimate trial for a young horse. A Classic victory etches a horse’s name in history. The structure mirrors the original British Classics. They are comprised of five prestigious events.
These races define the Indian horse racing calendar. They attract the very best horses and riders. The atmosphere during these events is simply electric. They are also premier social gatherings in their host cities.
- The Indian 1000 Guineas (Grade 1): This is the first Classic race of the packed period from December to February. It covers a distance of 1 mile (1.6 km). The race is exclusively for fillies. The next race is scheduled for 14th of December 2025 in Mumbai.
- The Indian 2000 Guineas (Grade 1): This race also spans a mile. It welcomes both colts and fillies. It occurs shortly after the 1000 Guineas. Look for it on 21st December 2025 in Mumbai.
- The Indian Oaks (Grade 1): Often called the “Ladies’ Derby”. It is a formidable test of stamina for fillies. The race is run over a mile and a half (1.5 miles, or 2,400 m) and the next edition is scheduled for late January 2026 in Mumbai.
- The Indian Derby (Grade 1): This is India’s most coveted race. Winning it is the ultimate dream for every owner and jockey. It is held over a mile and a half in Mumbai. The Derby boasts the highest prize money. The main event takes place on the first Sunday of February, so watch for it on February 1, 2026.
- The Indian St. Leger (Grade 1): Another Classic on the calendar. It poses the greatest stamina challenge for three-year-olds. The race is a taxing 2800m. This event typically occurs in September.
Key Regional Indian Horse Racing Calendar Seasons
Beyond the Classics, other meetings hold great importance. These seasons provide top-tier racing action. They also feature their own significant trophy races. These events are crucial milestones in the annual Indian horse racing calendar.
Mumbai Racing Season
Mumbai hosts the circuit’s most glamorous season. It runs from November to April. The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) organises it. The season culminates with the Indian Derby weekend. The Mahalaxmi Racecourse is a truly iconic venue. It offers a spectacular setting for the sport. This is a vital part of the Indian horse racing calendar.
Pune Racing Season
The Pune racing season typically takes place during the monsoon. It lasts from July to October. The RWITC also manages these events. It includes several important races. The Pune Derby is a major highlight of the season. It often acts as a preparatory race for the Classics. This season is a key fixture in the Indian horse racing calendar.
Bangalore Summer Meeting
The Bangalore Turf Club presents the Summer Meeting. This season runs from May to August. It is a very popular season for trainers. The pleasant Bangalore weather is a major draw. The Kingfisher Derby Bangalore is a significant highlight. It stands as a premier race in South India and the broader Indian horse racing calendar.