The countdown has begun for the return of Racing League, which is all set to deliver another summer of fierce competition, regional pride, and thrilling racing under the lights. The fifth edition of this unique team-based event begins on July 24 at Great Yarmouth, and anticipation is already building as more participants than ever before have signed up to compete.
Over the years, Racing League has grown in stature, offering fans and connections a refreshing twist on traditional racing. Seven teams will once again compete for glory across six Thursday evening fixtures, featuring 42 action-packed races. With over £2 million in prize money up for grabs, this season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the event’s history.
Each fixture is packed with high-value races, ensuring the stakes remain high throughout the league. The headline event at every meeting offers £75,000 in prize money, supported by several £50,000 contests, with no race on the card run for less than £35,000. In addition to the race purses, teams and jockeys have extra incentives to aim for, including a £50,000 reward for the overall team champions, a £35,000 bonus for the victorious team’s riders, and £20,000 reserved for the leading individual jockey across the series.
One of the standout changes for 2025 is the updated selection system for trainers and jockeys, designed to enhance participation and add a new layer of excitement. Teams will start the competition with six trainers and six jockeys, but as the weeks progress, managers will have the freedom to strengthen their line-ups, creating more tactical possibilities and greater unpredictability.
Defending champions Wales & The West, guided by Jamie Osborne, will be determined to hold on to their crown after their dramatic title-winning performance at Southwell last season. Osborne remains quietly confident that his team has the experience and know-how to stay on top, even with tweaks to the competition structure aimed at balancing the field.
The manager line-up this year adds further intrigue, with several new faces stepping into leadership roles. Grand National-winning jockey Mick Fitzgerald has been appointed to guide Team Ireland, bringing his wealth of racing knowledge and winning mentality to the group. Meanwhile, respected broadcaster Alex Steedman takes the reins for Scotland, and Charlie Fellowes moves up to lead The East, a team looking to build on their impressive run from last year.
Matt Chapman, known for his outspoken personality and passion for racing, returns to manage London & The South, despite briefly stepping away in frustration after last year’s results. With unfinished business, he is expected to bring even more energy to the competition. Former football star Mick Quinn is back leading The North, while popular racing presenter Leonna Mayor will once again oversee the Yorkshire team. Both are eager to capitalise on the revised selection process and drive their teams to success.
On the jockey front, all eyes will be on Saffie Osborne, who has dominated the competition in recent seasons by claiming the top rider title three years in a row. However, the likes of Daniel Muscutt and Billy Loughnane, who finished close behind her last year, will be pushing hard to disrupt her winning streak and stake their claim as the league’s standout rider.
With new managers, updated formats, and some of the sport’s brightest talent set to compete, Racing League 2025 promises to be a thrilling spectacle. From the opening night at Great Yarmouth to the grand finale at Southwell, fans can look forward to six consecutive weeks of competitive racing, unforgettable moments, and the ever-growing drama that makes Racing League one of the most unique events on the racing calendar.
