Group 1 Race Calendar: When & Where They Happen

Imagine never missing a thrilling Group 1 race again — feel the excitement before the starting gates even open. Racing fans struggle to keep up with the ever-changing schedule of elite Group 1 events globally. This guide provides a clear, well-structured, step-by-step calendar so you can follow every major race with ease — no fluff, all facts.

What Are Group 1 Races?

Group 1 races are the most prestigious events in horse racing, often compared to the “championship finals” of the sport. These races:

• Feature the best horses, jockeys, and trainers in the world
• Offer the highest prize money
• Attract global attention from fans and bettors
• Are strictly regulated and classified based on the quality of past winners and competitive standards

Whether it’s the Kentucky Derby in the USA or the Epsom Derby in the UK, Group 1 races are the highlight of the racing calendar.

Why the Group 1 Race Calendar Matters

Horse racing is held nearly year-round across different continents. But not all races are equal — Group 1 races are the ones that truly matter. Knowing when and where these races are happening allows fans to:

• Watch the top-tier action live or on-demand
• Place smarter bets
• Travel to major race events
• Follow favorite horses through their most critical runs

How the Group 1 Calendar Is Organized Globally

Different countries have their own Group 1 races, but they often follow a seasonal rhythm. Here’s how the calendar typically flows:

United Kingdom & Ireland

• Spring to Autumn (March–October) is peak flat-racing season
• Major events include:
  • The 2000 & 1000 Guineas – early May at Newmarket
  • The Derby and Oaks – early June at Epsom
  • Royal Ascot – mid-June, hosting multiple Group 1 races
  • July Cup, King George VI, Sussex Stakes – midsummer classics
  • York Ebor Festival & St Leger – late summer and early fall
  • British Champions Day – October finale at Ascot

These races are some of the oldest and most prestigious in the world.

United States

• The racing calendar is active all year with several major highlights:
  • Pegasus World Cup – January in Florida
  • Triple Crown races – May to June (Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes)
  • Travers Stakes – August
  • Breeders’ Cup – October or November, rotating locations

The U.S. has over 100 Grade 1 races, with rich history and top-level competition.

Australia

• Group 1 races are spread across the year, with a heavy focus in:
  • Autumn (March–April) – Golden Slipper, Doncaster Mile
  • Spring (October–November) – Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate, and the famous Melbourne Cup Carnival

Australia is known for its huge fan base and competitive international participation.

France, Germany & Europe

• Europe’s top races typically align with the UK schedule but include:
  • Prix de Diane & Prix du Jockey Club – French equivalents of the Oaks and Derby
  • Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – October in Paris, one of the most prestigious turf races globally

Germany and Italy also host recognized Group 1 events in summer.

Asia (Japan & Hong Kong)

• Japan runs iconic races like:
  • Japan Cup – late November
  • Arima Kinen – December
  • Tenno Sho – held twice annually (Spring and Autumn)
• Hong Kong’s racing season includes:
  • Hong Kong Cup, Mile, Sprint, and Vase – December international showcase
  • All 12 Group 1 races are now part of the global betting “World Pool”

These events regularly attract international entries and global viewership.

How to Keep Track of Group 1 Races

Staying updated doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s a simple way to follow the action:

1. Pick a reliable racing site
   • UK: Racing Post
   • US: Equibase
   • Japan: Japan Racing Association
   • AU: horise.com
2. Use a digital calendar
   • Mark big races with reminders
   • Follow the time zone of the host country
3. Watch Live
   • Most major races are available via sports channels or streaming platforms like Sky Sports Racing, Racing TV, and international betting apps See also Best Horse Racing Betting Apps & Platforms in Australia and Online Horse Racing Live Streams in Australia.
4. Follow official social media accounts
   • Tracks and racing bodies often post real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content

Recent Changes to the Group 1 Calendar

Horse racing bodies often update the Group 1 list based on race quality and global relevance. Recent updates include:

• City of York Stakes (UK) promoted to Group 1 status
• Hong Kong’s entire G1 slate added to the international World Pool
• France and Ireland regularly adjusting their calendar based on performance and attendance

These changes reflect the evolving nature of the sport, and fans benefit by staying informed.

Having a clear grasp of the Group 1 race calendar is more than just convenience — it’s strategy. Knowing the key dates and venues helps you plan ahead, study form, and make smarter wagers. With this guide at your fingertips, you’re now better equipped to follow the action, spot betting opportunities, and enjoy every major moment in the global racing season.