Ireland will stage 396 race meetings in 2027, six more than the number scheduled for 2026, with the return of racing to Tipperary’s redeveloped venue among the most significant changes in the new calendar.
The Ireland 2027 Fixture List includes the opening of Tipperary’s new all-weather track on October 23, with nine fixtures scheduled at the venue through the end of next year. The redevelopment marks a significant addition to the Irish racing programme and will provide further opportunities for participants during the latter part of the season.
The Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown will retain its familiar place on the St Brigid’s Bank Holiday weekend, with the two-day meeting scheduled for Saturday, January 30, and Sunday, January 31.
Ireland 2027 Fixture List includes second Good Friday trial
The 2027 calendar will also see the second year of the two-year Good Friday trial at the Curragh. The meeting is scheduled for Friday, March 26, continuing the initiative introduced as part of the current fixture planning period.
There will also be a minor adjustment to the Listowel Harvest Festival because of the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in September. The Listowel meeting will begin a day later than originally planned, starting on Monday, September 20, and running through Sunday, September 26.
The September programme at Navan and Kilbeggan has also been revised following the announcement of concerts at Slane Castle on September 4 and 5. The Navan fixture originally planned for September 4 has been brought forward to the evening of September 2.
Kilbeggan’s two-day fixture, initially scheduled for September 2 and 3, will instead take place on the evening of September 3 and the afternoon of September 4.
The changes underline the careful balancing required in compiling Ireland’s annual racing calendar, with major sporting and entertainment events having an impact on fixture scheduling.
Horse Racing Ireland Director of Racing Jonathan Mullin said the opening of Tipperary’s new all-weather facility would be an important development for the sport.
“The redevelopment of Tipperary racecourse to include a new all-weather track, and its opening fixture on October 23 next year, will mark a significant moment for Irish racing,” Mullin said.
Nine fixtures are planned at Tipperary during 2027, representing a notable expansion of the venue’s role within the national programme. The new facility is also intended to increase opportunities for racing stakeholders, particularly during the later months of the year.
With 396 meetings now included in the Ireland 2027 Fixture List, the programme combines established fixtures such as the Dublin Racing Festival with new infrastructure at Tipperary and several scheduling adjustments across the country.
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