The Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC) has announced the commencement of the much-anticipated Calcutta Cold Weather Racing Season 2025–26, which will begin on Thursday, 23rd October 2025, and continue until 1st April 2026. The season promises high-quality racing, with 30 exciting race days and 179 events, including 64 prestigious cup races, set to unfold over the five-month period.
According to information shared by RCTC’s Vice President (Racing) Amit Chaturvedi, The RCTC currently has 271 horses in training, with several more expected to arrive in the coming weeks. The Club has granted ‘A’ licenses to 13 trainers and 15 jockeys, alongside 34 ‘B’-licensed trainers, 15 honorary riders, and 2 apprentice jockeys, ensuring a season filled with competition, skill, and sportsmanship.
This year’s calendar features a strong line-up of graded and classic races that promise to draw attention from racing enthusiasts across India. Among the notable fixtures are:
- The Mayfowl Cup (14 November 2025)
- The Calcutta 1000 Guineas (Grade III) (29 November 2025)
- The Calcutta 2000 Guineas (Grade II) (6 December 2025)
- The Calcutta Gold Cup (13 December 2025)
- The Calcutta Oaks (20 December 2025)
- The Calcutta Derby Stakes (Grade I) (11 January 2026)
- The Indian Champion Cup (Grade I) (23 January 2026)
- The Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Cup (Grade III) (7 February 2026)
- The Calcutta Million (Grade III) (14 February 2026)
- The Indian Gold Vase and The Grand Annual Mile (11 March 2026)
The Calcutta Derby, along with the Champion Cup, will once again stand out as the marquee events of the season, drawing elite contenders and large crowds to the iconic racecourse.
The total stake money on offer this season stands at an impressive ₹11.9 crore, supplemented by ₹17.75 lakh in trophies and cups.
As part of its continued efforts to promote excellence in training and racing, the RCTC has announced a 25% bonus stake for all Non-Sweepstakes Handicap and Juvenile races for horses trained by “A”-licensed professionals. Trainers and jockeys will also receive their respective shares of this bonus.
In a further boost to juvenile racing, the winner’s prize for ordinary juvenile races has been increased to ₹8.15 lakh, a move expected to encourage more owners to introduce their young horses under experienced “A”-licensed trainers.
The Stewards of the RCTC expressed optimism for a vibrant and competitive season, extending appreciation to members of the media for their consistent coverage and support.
“We look forward to an exciting season that will uphold the rich legacy of racing in the City of Joy. The RCTC remains committed to providing a world-class racing experience for owners, trainers, jockeys, and fans alike,” the statement read.
With a blend of tradition, competition, and grandeur, the Calcutta Cold Weather Season 2025–26 is set to reaffirm RCTC’s status as one of the most celebrated racing destinations in the country.
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