TOWCESTER AWARDED 2026 ENGLISH DERBY

Ian Fortune

The 2026 English Derby will be run at Towcester after it was yesterday announced that the selection panel had chosen the Northamptonshire venue over Dunstall Park.

The classic will boast a reduced winner’s prize of £125,000, down from £175,000, but that keeps it in line with the BOYLE Sports Irish Greyhound Derby.

The statement from the GBGB says: “The Greyhound Board of Great Britain is pleased to announce that, following consideration from a panel* of greyhound owners, trainers, racecourse promoters and other stakeholders, it has awarded the 2026 English Greyhound Derby contract to Towcester Racecourse.

“Towcester which has hosted the Derby for seven of the past 10 years, recently changed ownership necessitating the bid process for 2026.”

Richard Thomas, CEO at Towcester Racecourse said: “We are thrilled the English Greyhound Derby is staying right where it belongs. “We’re the best track in the UK in terms of facilities and are working hard to make thisvenue a home that everyone in greyhound racing can be proud of.”

Mike Davis, chairman of Towcester Racecourse, added: “After taking over the promotion of the Derby and hospitality of the venue just weeks before the start of the competition, we put on a show to remember.

“Now, with time on our side, we can look forward to building on that success and giving our spectators another memorable Derby experience, while ensuring the greyhounds who race here receive the very best care and attention.

“We are delighted that the Greyhound Derby has found its home at Towcester Racecourse and we thank the GBGB for their support,” Davis added.

Ben Keith, owner of Star Sports said: “I’m thrilled that the Derby is returning to Towcester for the sixth consecutive year. “The event has grown year-on-year and I’m immensely proud to once again sponsor the most iconic and prestigious competition in the greyhound racing calendar.

“I know that Mike Davis and his team will ensure it’s even bigger and better in 2026.”

Mark Moisley, commercial director for the Greyhound Board of Great Britain, said: “We are pleased to announce Towcester as the venue for the 2026 English Greyhound Derby today and thank all those involved in the Derby Panel for their time in considering this decision.

“Towcester has been an exciting and successful Derby venue over the years, drawing in the highest standard of racers from across the UK and Ireland as well as hosting excellent crowds and offering a range of events and attractions throughout the competition.

“Next year’s event will start on Thursday, April 30, with the final taking place on Saturday, June 6.

“We are grateful to Dunstall Park for also submitting a strong proposal. Whilst both tracks are worthy venues, given one is under new ownership and the other a new track, the panel felt the correct course of action was to award the contract for one year only with a review planned for June of next year.”