The Qatar Goodwood Festival Returns

Start: Tuesday, July 30, 2024 11:00AM
End: Saturday, August 3, 2024 8:00PM

Renowned as the sporting and social highlight of the British flat racing season, this world-famous festival promises an unforgettable experience from Tuesday 30 July to Saturday 3 August 2024. With every day designated as a Premier Raceday, the Qatar Goodwood Festival showcases the very best of British horseracing. The festival features 13 Group contests and three ultra-competitive Group 1 races, including the £1 million Qatar Sussex Stakes, making it a must-attend event for enthusiasts and casual spectators alike. Day-by-Day Guide: Tuesday 30 July – Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup Day • The undoubted sporting and social highlight of the flat-racing season kicks off in style. Enjoy a feast of top-quality racing including the historic Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup. Fashion fans can delight in the Goodwood Talent in Fashion Award where fashion designer, Bora Aksu, will be showcasing three designs exclusive to the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Whilst those on within the Gordon Enclosure can relax and soak up the atmosphere of Glorious Goodwood each day on The Earl’s Lawn with our popular saxophonist 'Entourage' and live DJ, Sarah Bo. After a full day of racing, join us for the popular annual cricket match between Lord March’s Racing XI and the Lord’s Taverners, set in front of Goodwood House. Wednesday 31 July – Qatar Sussex Stakes Day • The Qatar Sussex Stakes is one of the key highlights of the flat racing season, becoming Goodwood’s race of champions. With a reputation for bringing together some of the most outstanding horses in training year-on-year, it has earned its moniker, the ‘Duel On The Downs’. Previous winners include the peerless Frankel, the French sensation Solow and the mighty Mohaather in 2020. Military band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment will be parading on track pre-racing. Thursday 1 August – Ladies’ Day featuring The Markel Magnolia Cup & Qatar Nassau Stakes • Ladies’ Day is the place to be seen, the perfect opportunity to show off your finest outfits and enjoy a beautiful day out with friends. The day kick starts with the Markel Magnolia Cup where 12 inspirational female riders race downs Goodwood's famous home straight. The most prestigious charity race run in the UK sees inspirational women race down Goodwood Racecourse's home straight for the opening race on Thursday at Qatar Goodwood Festival. Each year riders are selected to take part from all walks of life, none are professional jockeys - but their resilience and determination has helped change the perceptions of women in sport. Finally, Group 1 Qatar Nassau Stakes features as a highlight of the eight-race card for day three of Qatar Goodwood Festival. Friday 2 August – King George Qatar Stakes Day • The Best Dressed competition takes place on Friday 2 August, where men and women are encouraged to wear their most 'glorious' outfits (dress code: quintessentially British style: relaxed, effortlessly elegant). The judges will be looking for those who take into account all aspects of the outfit; dress, shoes, hat and accessories. With no colour requirements this year, racegoers are encouraged to explore all colour themes. Richmond and Gordon enclosure guests will be in the with the chance of being selected, and prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place winners. Racing features the Group 2 King George Qatar Stakes sees the world’s top sprinters do battle in a race made famous by superstar Battaash. The Coral Golden Mile and the Group 3 Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes make it a memorable way to start a long weekend. Saturday August – The Coral Stewards’ Cup Day • A fitting finale to a fantastic week where the emphasis is on socialising - Qatar Goodwood Festival is the place to be with your friends and family. The Coral Stewards' Cup takes centre stage for the final day of the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Previous winners of this iconic cavalry charge down Goodwood's home straight include Lochsong, Dancing Star and 2019's winner Khaadem. Day tickets are available at a range of prices, including: • Lennox Enclosure Admission Only: Relaxed and family-friendly, offering great value with excellent course views and a lively atmosphere – £25pp. • Gordon Enclosure Admission Only: Central location with excellent course views, Parade Ring access, two grandstands, and diverse food and drink choices – £55pp. • Richmond Enclosure Admission Only: Exclusive access for members to premier facilities, including bars, dining, and a Champagne bar and lawn. Provides views of the parade ring, winning post, and access to the March grandstand – £99p.