THIS week the Curragh Racecourse announced that Dubai Duty Free has extended its sponsorship of the Group 1 Irish Derby for a further two years. They have also agreed to sponsor five additional races which will all benefit from significant increases in prizemoney. Dubai Duty Free has been the title sponsor of Ireland’s premier classic since 2008.

The three-day Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival returns to a weekend timeslot this year, running from Friday, June 26th to Sunday 28th. In a new development, the Dubai Duty Free Village located in the new Curragh garden close to the parade ring will offer an array of food and beverage outlets and a full programme of entertainment. Dubai Duty Free will also continue to sponsor the most stylish racegoer competition with a 5-star Dubai holiday for the winner.