Horse racing: the most anticipated events of 2025
Let’s be real—horse racing isn’t just about horses. It’s also about the bounce of guys in the pub yelling at a TV, the lady in a fascinator spilling champagne, and that one friend who swears they’ve got a “sure thing” (spoiler: they don’t). In 2025, three events will dominate the scenes: Cheltenham, Aintree, and Ascot. Here’s why you’ll want to clear your calendar, empty your wallet (responsibly, always), and maybe buy a fancy hat.
Cheltenham Festival (March 11–14, 2025): Where Mud Meets Mayhem
Imagine a music festival, but swap the guitars for jockeys and the crowd surfers for punters screaming “GO ON, YA MAD YOKE!” That’s Cheltenham. Started in 1860 as a humble hunt meet, it’s now a four-day chaos-fest in Gloucestershire.
The Cheltenham Festival is one of the most highly anticipated horse racing events of the year, attracting enthusiasts and bettors from around the world. Held annually in March, this four-day spectacle showcases top-class racing, including prestigious contests like the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Champion Hurdle. But here’s the kicker: it’s the place to lose money gloriously. From outright winners to each-way bets and special markets, there are countless ways to get involved. Many of the best odds and promotions for the event are included in this list available on Oddschecker, allowing bettors to compare and find the most competitive options before placing their wages.
Who’s Hot in 2025?
Willie Mullins’ crew is back, and Galopin Des Champs might just go for Gold Cup round two. But keep an eye on El Fabiolo—if he stays upright, he’s a rocket ship. And don’t sleep on the mares; Honeysuckle’s ghost still haunts these grounds.
Aintree Grand National (May 3–5, 2025): The Race That Breaks Hearts (and Fences)
You know that scene in National Velvet where everyone cries? Multiply that by 30 fences and a 50/1 underdog. The Grand National isn’t a race—it’s a lottery with hooves. Held at Liverpool’s Aintree since 1839, this thing’s survived bomb threats, suffragette protests, and that year Red Rum decided winning once wasn’t enough.
Why It’s Unmissable
Because your barber has an opinion on it. Because your nan once won £2 on a horse named “Lucky Pants.” Because in 2023, Corach Rambler made it look easy, but 2025’s field is stacked with lunatics like I Am Maximus and Kitty’s Light. Oh, and Becher’s Brook? That fence eats champions for breakfast.
Plot Twist Potential
Rumors say a mystery horse trained by a TikTok influencer (cough #HorseTok) might enter. Unlikely? Sure. But this is Aintree—logic left the building in 1839.
Royal Ascot (June 17–21, 2025): Where the Queen’s Hat Meets Usain Bolt
Swap your raincoat for a top hat and your wellies for heels—Ascot’s the posh cousin of racing. Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne (who clearly had opinions), this five-day bash is half-fashion show, half-speed trial. The royals show up, the champagne flows, and someone always wears a hat shaped like a swan.
Why It’s Not Just for Toffs
Yeah, the dress code is stricter than a school principal, but the racing? Chef’s kiss. The Gold Cup’s a marathon (2.5 miles!), the Queen Anne Stakes is a sprint, and the Windsor Castle Stakes? Basically baby horses doing zoomies.
2025’s Talking Points
Inspiral’s back to defend her Queen Anne crown, but watch out for City Of Troy—the Coolmore colt’s faster than gossip at a hair salon. And let’s not forget the real MVP: the bookie taking bets on “Most Absurd Hat.” (Spoiler: It’ll involve feathers.)
Why These Races Actually Matter
Beyond the bets and the booze, these events are cultural glue. Cheltenham’s where Ireland and England throw down (politely). Aintree’s raised £25 million for charity since 2019. Ascot? It’s the reason milliners still exist. These races aren’t just sports—they’re stories, memes, and occasionally, national therapy sessions.
Final Word: Get Hyped or Get Left Behind
2025’s lineup is stacked with chaos, cash, and comeback tales for the horse racing business. Cheltenham’s for the die-hards, Aintree’s for the thrill-seekers, and Ascot’s for anyone who’s ever wanted to side-eye a duke. So grab your binoculars, check Oddschecker (seriously, don’t wing it), and practice your victory dance. Or your “I-told-you-so” shrug. Either way, see you at the finish line.