The Betfred Guineas Festival 2026

Few races in world horseracing are as prestigious as the 2000 and 1000 Guineas. Dating back to the 19th century, the contests are steeped in history and crown the Flat racing season’s first Classic winners.

Held over the first weekend in May, the Betfred Guineas Festival at the Rowley Mile celebrates the best new crop of three year old equine superstars and the sport’s best trainers and jockeys.

Saturday is headlined by the Group One Betfred 2000 Guineas. Run over a mile, the opening Classic of the season for three year old colts has been won by some of the greatest Thoroughbreds to walk planet earth, including Nijinsky (1970), Nashwan (1989), Dancing Brave (1986), Sea The Stars (2009) and the modern day sensation Frankel (2011).

Guineas winners often go on to line up in the biggest races of the rest of the campaign and the fillies’ equivalent, the Betfred 1000 Guineas, headlines Sunday’s action.

Both races form the first leg of the Triple Crown, followed by The Betfred Derby at Epsom Downs and the Betfred St Leger for colts and the Betfred Oaks at Epsom Downs and the Betfred St Leger for fillies - a format which has been replicated all over the world.

The supporting cards across all three days are packed with quality contests - superb racing action on the track is guaranteed!

And while the action on the track is among the very best on offer anywhere in world horseracing, there is top class food and entertainment to match with a range of music, refreshments and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Don’t miss out on the biggest weekend of racing in Newmarket all year!