History was made in front of the biggest Betfred St Leger Day crowd in 14 years as HRH The Princess Royal presented the iconic Betfred St Leger Trophy.
Doncaster Racecourse hosted a historic 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic as Saffie Osborne became the first female jockey to win a British Classic by winning the Betfred St Leger Stakes.
More than 30,000 racegoers descended on Doncaster Racecourse to witness a historic edition of the Betfred St Leger Stakes, as Highwayman secured victory in the landmark Group 1 Classic for trainer Joseph O’Brien. The 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic saw a 16% increase in attendance compared to 2025, with this year’s Betfred St Leger Day welcoming its largest crowd since 2012.
Shortly after the race ended, HRH The Princess Royal presented an emotional Saffie with the iconic Betfred St Leger Trophy in the Parade Ring, surrounded by applause from the crowd.
Outside of the Group 1 race, the afternoon’s racing also saw Desert Castle, ridden by Billy Loughnane and trained by Charlie Appleby, land the Group 2 Betfred Champagne Stakes. Meanwhile, More Thunder, ridden by Tom Marquand and trained by William Haggas, claimed victory in the Group 2 Park Stakes.
Away from the racing, Doncaster-local Lesley Garrett sang the national anthem, Jordan North brought the party to the Champagne Lawn with a live DJ set, and The Everly Pregnant Brothers entertained racegoers in the Exhibition Hall. Artist in Residence Rebecca Wright also captured the atmosphere of the historic day in a live painting celebrating the 250th running of the world’s oldest Classic, with the artwork also being captured by ITV Racing.
Rachel Harwood, Executive Director of Doncaster Racecourse, said: “Today, Doncaster made history. This year’s 250th Betfred St Leger has been a truly special occasion as we celebrated a historic moment in the history of the racecourse, the city and the sport. For two and a half centuries, generations have gathered here on Town Moor to witness this great race but, for Doncaster, the St Leger has always meant more than one horse race; it’s helped shape our city, brought people together and offered opportunities and careers for generations of local people. In another 250 years, people will still tell the story of the St Leger but, today, we got to say we were here.
“We’ve staged a fitting celebration to mark this significant milestone, and I’d like to personally congratulate Saffie Osborne for her historic win in the 250th running of the Betfred St Leger Stakes on Highwayman. Hearing the St Leger roar is always a highlight of the four days for me, but today was particularly poignant. Thank you to HRH The Princess Royal for presenting Saffie with the coveted Betfred St Leger Trophy and for her presence on the day, which helped ensure this iconic race was a truly memorable occasion.
“The atmosphere around the Racecourse today and throughout the festival has been electric, with guests coming together to be part of such a significant moment in the history of the Betfred St Leger.
“We’re incredibly proud of the experience we’ve delivered to our customers, whether that’s families attending in the Picnic Enclosure through to those enjoying the finest hospitality in the Sky Garden, the response from all of our guests has been incredible. It’s been a truly memorable day.
“My sincere thanks go to Betfred, our festival partner, and to all our sponsors, partners, racing participants, colleagues and volunteers whose support has made this wonderful festival happen. It’s been a privilege celebrating with all of them and of course, our wonderful guests.”
The Festival concludes with Betfred Sunday Funday on Sunday 13th September, with fun for all ages. Alongside appearances from PAW Patrol characters, Chase and Skye, guests can enjoy a treasure hunt, colouring & craft station and funfair rides. A family ticket is only £25 and can be bought at www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk
The Betfred St Leger Festival will return in 2027, following this year’s landmark 250th anniversary celebrations. Secure your tickets to be part of the 2027 festival at the best price online here.
