Australian Racing Calendar 2026

Complete horse racing calendar featuring Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 races across Australia

Upcoming Major Australian Horse Races 2026

Golden Slipper 2026

Date: March 21, 2026 | Prize: $5,000,000 | Distance: 1200m

The world's richest race for two-year-old horses at Rosehill Gardens Racecourse in Sydney.

The Everest 2026

Date: October 17, 2026 | Prize: $20,000,000 | Distance: 1200m

The world's richest turf race held at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.

Cox Plate 2026

Date: October 24, 2026 | Prize: $5,000,000 | Distance: 2040m

Australia's weight-for-age championship at Flemington Racecourse (relocated due to Moonee Valley renovations).

Melbourne Cup 2026

Date: November 3, 2026 | Prize: $8,000,000+ | Distance: 3200m

The race that stops a nation - Australia's most prestigious thoroughbred horse race at Flemington Racecourse.

Racing Venues Across Australia

  • NSW: Royal Randwick, Rosehill Gardens, Canterbury Park
  • VIC: Flemington, Moonee Valley, Caulfield
  • QLD: Eagle Farm, Doomben, Gold Coast Turf Club
  • SA: Morphettville, Murray Bridge
  • WA: Ascot, Belmont Park
  • TAS: Hobart, Launceston

Race Classifications

Group 1 Races

The highest level of thoroughbred horse racing featuring the best horses competing for the largest prize pools.

Group 2 Races

High-quality races that serve as stepping stones to Group 1 events with substantial prize money.

Group 3 Races

Quality racing events that showcase emerging talent and established performers.