Racing Post has announced the extension of its sponsorship agreement with Leopardstown, providing title sponsorship and race sponsorship of day one of the Leopardstown Christmas festival. As part of the two-year agreement, day one will now be called Racing Post day with the feature race of the day the Racing Post Novice Chase.

The partnership outlines Racing Post commitment to Irish racing at the end of what has been the most unprecedented year. With no sign of crowds returning to racecourses continued sponsorship is crucial to the success of festivals and racecourses across the country.

The Grade 1 Racing Post Chase has an illustrious history and has been won by equine heroes such as Danoli, Moscow Flyer, Sizing Europe, Douvan, Min & Notebook to name but a few. This year’s renewal looks set to excite once again as it gets the festival Group 1s underway.

The Leopardstown Christmas Festival is a highlight of the festive period taking place between 26-29 December annually. The meeting usually welcomes over 55,000 people, although this won’t be the case in 2020 due to Covid. However with over €1 million in prize money on offer and featuring 7 Grade 1 races and a number of valuable Handicaps the festival is just as exciting this year.

Discussing the extended partnership with Leopardstown, Racing Post Retail Director, Alan Pepperell mentioned the importance of supporting the racing industry in Ireland.

Pepperell said: ‘It’s a hugely difficult time for racecourses across the UK and Ireland with no crowds in attendance. The work that is going on behind the scenes to get racing on in a safe environment is incredible. We’re delighted to continue our support with Leopardstown, their Christmas festival has become a pilgrimage for a lot of Irish racing fans and while that won’t be the case this year we hope Racing Post day kicks off the festival in style. We know the festival will be a success and we’re delighted to be on board for the next two renewals.’

Tim Husbands, CEO Leopardstown echoed Alan’s words saying: ‘We are delighted to extend our partnership with Racing Post and are grateful for their continued support in these challenging times. Racing has been able to continue through the most stringent of restrictions due to Covid 19 and this would not be possible without the support of our partners. We look forward to many more renewals of the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Chase which is the highlight of the first day of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival.’