Dubai Duty Free powers Irish Derby’s 160th running into racing history at The Curragh

The thrill of thoroughbred racing and the flash of fashion are set to return to The Curragh Racecourse this weekend, as the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby gears up for three spectacular days of world-class flat racing and social celebration.

The historic Curragh Racecourse, nestled in the heart of Co. Kildare, Ireland will once again play host to Ireland’s most prestigious racing event, this year marking the 160th running of the historic colt’s Classic.

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The headline act? Derby Day on Sunday, June 29th, when some of the UK and Europe’s elite thoroughbreds will battle it out for glory over 2,400 metres in the race that has defined generations. In 2024, it was Los Angeles, trained by the legendary Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore, who stole the show, a reminder of the calibre of horse this race continues to attract.

Since Dubai Duty Free became the title sponsor in 2008, the festival has grown in global stature. Today, it stands proudly among the most prestigious events of the international flat racing calendar, with the prestigious airport retailer now sponsoring six of the eight races on Derby Day.

Impact of strategic sports alliances

Speaking ahead of the Festival, Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi reflected on the power of sporting partnerships saying: “Sports sponsorship is part of Dubai Duty Free’s marketing strategy and that has been the case for many years, as it enables the business to reach a global audience via the media exposure that goes with the various sporting events the company is involved with.

“We are looking forward to a great day of racing and entertainment at The Curragh, one of the world’s most iconic racecourses and home to all five of the Irish Classics.”

On Derby Day, Mr Cidambi will welcome up to 100 guests to the exclusive St. Leger Suite. At the same time, the infield action will include the eagerly anticipated Dubai Duty Free Best Dressed Competition. Making her debut as Lead Fashion Judge is none other than Clodagh McKenna, celebrity chef, author, and style icon, bringing a touch of glamour and culinary flair to the racecourse.

Clodagh will be joined by Alpana Cidambi, a connoisseur of fashion and Dubai Duty Free ambassador, and Bairbre Power, one of Ireland’s leading fashion journalists. Adding to the pedigree of the event, Clodagh’s husband, Harry Herbert, a lifelong racing enthusiast and prominent figure in global bloodstock, will also be in attendance.

“Harry just loves Irish racing,” said McKenna. “He’s worked with Irish breeders and trainers for over 20 years. We’re both really looking forward to Derby weekend, it’s going to be so much fun.”

Dubai Presence Adds Prestige

Meanwhile, two renowned Dubai-based brands will lend their support to Saturday’s card, setting the stage for Sunday’s showpiece. The Jebel Ali Racecourse and Stables Anglesey Stakes (Group 3) for two-year-olds over 6½ furlongs.

Shortly after that, the Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai International Stakes (Group 3), run in honour of legendary trainer Kevin Prendergast, which will see top-class three-year-olds and older horses battle it out over 1 mile and 2 furlongs adding further prestige and visibility to Dubai’s enduring connection with international flat racing.

One stylish racegoer will walk away with more than just bragging rights. The Best Dressed Competition winner will receive a luxury travel package courtesy of Dubai Duty Free, including return flights for two to Dubai, a five-night stay at the 5-star Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, and a €1,000 shopping spree at Dubai Duty Free’s iconic retail haven.

As the build-up begins, the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby promises not just a sporting spectacle, but a celebration of Irish heritage and enduring passion for the turf.