The Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare will stage a major highlight of the Irish Flat season on Sunday, 28 June 2026, as the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) takes centre stage. The €1,250,000 contest over 1m4f at 16:35 will bring together a select field of leading three-year-olds in a high-profile renewal at Curragh Racecourse, forming the feature event within the Curragh Race Cards 28 June programme.
Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) Preview
The Group 1 Irish Derby will be run over one mile and four furlongs and is expected to provide a thorough test of stamina and racecraft. A strong line-up of progressive three-year-olds will go to post, each arriving with solid form from earlier seasonal campaigns.
BENVENUTO CELLINI will be ridden by R.L. Moore and brings strong international form into the race. BUNYOLA BAY, under S.M. Levey, is expected to be closely involved following consistent Group-level performances. CHRISTMAS DAY, partnered by R.P. Whelan, adds further depth to the field, while JAMES J BRADDOCK with D. Browne McMonagle represents another leading contender with steady progression through the ranks.
Further strength is provided by ACTION, PIERRE BONNARD, RAAHEEB, and SHAIHAAN, all of whom will look to capitalise on any pace developments in what is expected to be a strongly run contest.
The Curragh Race Cards 28 June will also include a well-structured supporting programme featuring maiden, handicap, and stakes races. These contests will provide opportunities for emerging horses to perform on one of Ireland’s premier racing stages. Across the afternoon, conditions will favour horses with proven stamina and the ability to sustain a strong rhythm, with competitive fields expected throughout the card.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to RaceBuzz