The 2025 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby is poised to deliver an exhilarating weekend filled with the finest of Irish racing. As the excitement builds, fans are looking forward to not only the races but also extensive TV coverage on TG4 and RTÉ, highlighting the grandeur of this prestigious event. This year marks a noteworthy anniversary as it is the 160th running of the Derby, a historical race that holds personal significance; it was won by my great-grandfather during its 50th running in 1915, a point of pride for our family.
This year’s Derby promises not just thrilling competition, but also the opportunity for two lucky Sport for Business Members to win tickets to one of the racing days through a special competition featured in today’s bulletin.
A key highlight will be the esteemed racehorse Lambourn, victor of the Epsom Derby, seeking to amplify his already impressive reputation. As the favorite, expectations soar for his performance against the strong contenders, Tennessee Stud and Lazy Griff, who secured second and third places at Epsom.
Dubai Duty Free, a longstanding partner of the Derby, proudly sponsors the event for the 17th consecutive year. Their support epitomizes the race’s commercial viability and cultural significance, pushing the boundaries of sponsorship experiences this year with a range of new partnerships.
The 2025 Derby sees exciting activations from brands like O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey and Diageo Luxury Spirits, who will showcase their premium products on Friday through dedicated race sponsorships. These partnerships aim to enhance the overall atmosphere of the festival, aligning perfectly with the luxurious ambiance of the event.
The drinks and hospitality offerings at the Derby this year are curated to embody its opulence. The exclusive Champagne partner, Moët & Chandon, will be serving bubbly to guests, while Whispering Angel rosé, Bottega prosecco, and top-quality wines from Bibendum will also be on the menu. Diageo retains exclusive rights for draught beverages, providing a variety of iconic beers such as Guinness, Carlsberg, and Rockshore throughout the weekend.
As the event unfolds, local engagement deepens, particularly on Saturday, with the arrival of new sponsors like Keadeen Hotel, and Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes taking a leading role by supporting the Ladies Derby. This initiative has notably become the most lucrative race for female jockeys in Europe, reflecting a shift towards inclusivity and recognition of talent in horse racing.
Moreover, Paddy Power sponsors the prestigious Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes for the first time, contributing to the event’s vibrant atmosphere and its cultural significance in the sporting calendar.
Sunday’s Dubai Duty Free Derby Day marks yet another high note, welcoming Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort as a new sponsor for 2025. Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick’s Mercedes-Benz adds a touch of automotive sophistication to the celebrations as the official car partner, ensuring a luxurious experience for all attendees.
The style stakes at this year’s Derby are equally thrilling. Attendees will compete for the title of The K Club’s Most Stylish Racegoer, which will be judged by the talented Kayleigh Trappe on Saturday, June 28. On Sunday, culinary star and fashion icon Clodagh McKenna will lead the judging panel for the coveted Best Dressed Competition, adding glamour and allure to the already distinguished event.
In conjunction with the racing festivities, Sport for Business is gearing up for its second annual Business of Golf event at the prestigious Carton House on Tuesday, July 1. This gathering is set to kick off at 10 AM, featuring insightful discussions and an exclusive golf experience at the Golf Ireland Academy, rich with opportunities for networking and skill-building.
For those intrigued by the intersection of business and sport, Sport for Business is not only fostering community engagement but also launching key discussions aimed at shaping the landscape of Irish sport. This includes a special event on August 29 that will delve into Future Proofing Irish Sport, focusing on innovative themes such as the role of AI.
As a part of the Sport for Business community, which includes over 300 members from across the sporting spectrum, attendees will find numerous opportunities for collaboration and insight into the ever-evolving dynamics of sport and business in Ireland. This membership offers access to exclusive events, valuable networking, and a wealth of information aimed at enhancing the experience of everyone involved in the industry.
