The 2025 Guineas Festival concluded in spectacular fashion on Sunday, May 4, with more than 33,000 racegoers attending over three days at Newmarket Racecourses, making it the highest-attended edition since the festival expanded to a three-day format in 2022. The on-track highlight belonged to Godolphin, as trainer Charlie Appleby and jockey William Buick completed a rare and historic Classic double.
After Saturday’s win in the 2000 Guineas with RULING COURT, the duo returned on Sunday to land the 1000 Guineas with the unbeaten filly DESERT FLOWER, sealing a clean sweep of the opening British Classics of the flat racing season. It was the first time since 2005 that the same trainer-jockey-owner combination has achieved this feat.
Buick, who enjoyed six wins across the 23 races staged, was thrilled: “Winning both the 2000 and 1000 Guineas is unbelievably special. It’s something you don’t dare to expect. Charlie is a master and I’m extremely grateful to the whole team for their incredible work.”
The festival kicked off on Friday with 3,992 attendees—a 58.7% increase from the previous year—followed by 17,688 on Saturday (up 6%) and 11,475 on Sunday (up 4.6%), totalling 33,425 overall and marking a 10% increase in year-on-year attendance.
Newmarket Racecourses and International Director Sophie Able praised the turnout and atmosphere: “It’s been a fantastic three days of racing on the Rowley Mile, with thrilling editions of the Guineas and crowd figures rising each day. We’ve focused on enhancing the customer experience and are delighted to see such a positive response from fans.”
She also acknowledged the contributions of broadcasters ITV and Racing TV, adding: “Their coverage brought the energy of the festival to viewers around the country, and we’re incredibly thankful to everyone involved, including our dedicated team at the racecourse.”
With heightened engagement, standout performances, and a strong start to the British Classics season, the 2025 Guineas Festival has reinforced Newmarket’s status as the historic heart of flat racing.
