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UAE/IRELAND. The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival unfolds this weekend at The Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare, a prime event in the horse racing calendar that emphasizes Dubai Duty Free’s prominent global presence through strategic sponsorship.
At the heart of the festivities is the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, which will be celebrated as the 160th edition of this prestigious race. Last year’s thrilling contest concluded with Los Angeles, a stunning horse trained by the celebrated Aidan O’Brien, crossing the finish line first under the masterful guidance of jockey Ryan Moore. This victory not only showcased the exceptional talent within the realm of horse racing but also heightened anticipation for this year’s event.
Since acquiring the title sponsorship in 2008, Dubai Duty Free has significantly transformed the event, extending its influence across six of the eight races that take place on Derby Day. This commitment has further bolstered the reputation of the Irish Derby as a premier fixture on the global flat racing circuit.
Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, emphasizes the strategic significance of sports sponsorship in their marketing initiatives. He reflects, “Sports sponsorship has been a core part of our marketing strategy for years. It allows us to reach a global audience through the extensive media coverage accompanying various sporting events. We are excited about the day of racing and entertainment ahead at The Curragh, a venue renowned as one of the world’s iconic racecourses and the cradle of all five Irish Classics.”
Gracing the event will be around 100 guests hosted by Cidambi in the luxurious St. Leger suite on Derby Day. This year’s festival will also feature a splash of glamour with the Dubai Duty Free Best Dressed Competition. Celebrity chef and fashion icon Clodagh McKenna is set to lead the judging panel, complemented by Alpana Cidambi, the wife of Ramesh Cidambi, and lifestyle and fashion journalist Bairbre Power, each bringing their unique expertise to this exciting competition.
The winner of the Best Dressed Competition will be rewarded with an exceptional luxury prize package courtesy of Dubai Duty Free. This enticing reward includes return flights for two to Dubai, a lavish five-night stay at the five-star Dubai Duty Free-owned Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, and a generous €1,000 spending allowance to indulge at Dubai Duty Free. Such incentives not only enhance the festival experience but also elevate the event’s appeal to a broader audience. ✈
