HORSE Racing Ireland’s plan to borrow money to finance the construction of an all-weather racecourse at Tipperary has been approved by the Government. HRI expects building to begin in the first quarter of 2026. All going well, the first all-weather meeting at Tipperary will take place in late 2027.

Originally budgeted at €18 million but likely to cost significantly more than that now, Ireland’s second all-weather track closed for tendering in 2023 but a contractor was not appointed due to delays in getting the project signed off by various Government departments. The approval of the final business case is the last permission required under the Government’s Infrastructure Guidelines.

Now HRI can complete the procurement process with a main contractor and the specialist sub-contractors providing the lighting and surface for the new track. It is expected that contracts will be signed in early December.

Tipperary is not expected to stage any of its 2026 fixtures and, assuming construction goes to schedule, HRI will shortly announce alternative temporary venues for Tipperary’s 2026 fixtures.

“Future growth”

Martin Heydon, the Minister for Agriculture, said: “The project, which forms a central initiative within Horse Racing Ireland’s current strategic plan, will support the future growth and continued success of the horse racing industry in Ireland.

“The approval of this project demonstrates my continued commitment to supporting a sector that plays such an important role in the rural economy and in the social and cultural fabric of Ireland. This support has helped maintain Ireland’s world class reputation for excellence in horse racing. This project will further enhance this incredible reputation.”

Suzanne Eade, HRI CEO, said: “Today represents a significant and welcome milestone in bringing to fruition the development of a second Irish all-weather track at Tipperary Racecourse. This vital project will create a huge economic stimulus for Tipperary, both town and county, creating jobs, supporting local businesses and driving tourism.

“It will also provide a major boost to racing throughout the south of the country, providing accessible racing and training facilities, with 60% of trainers based within a 90-minute journey of the track.

“Tipperary as a county is at the very heart of Irish racing and the all-weather track development at Tipperary Racecourse will further cement this position, delivering long-term benefits for our key, global-leading rural industry.”

Andrew Hogan, Tipperary Racecourse manager, stated: “This is very positive news for Tipperary racecourse, the county and the wider region. This couldn’t have happened without the unwavering support of the local community and wider industry.

“An independent Deloitte report in 2023 demonstrated the significant contribution of horse racing to Co Tipperary, where the industry generates €329 million in expenditure. We expect this figure to grow significantly in the future with the all-weather track development.

“As well as being able to stage regular flat racing throughout the winter months, we will retain the existing turf jumping fixtures to provide year-round opportunities under both codes.

“We will also facilitate training on the main track and a new deep sand gallop throughout the year, providing a tremendous boost for trainers in the south.”

THE Irish Thoroughbred Marketing (ITM) Irish Stallion Trail takes place on Friday and Saturday, January 16th and 17th. The Trail offers breeders, racing professionals and fans a unique chance to look inside over 30 leading stallion farms across 12 counties at no charge.

The popular Mark O’Hanlon Memorial Quiz will take place on the same weekend. The racing-themed quiz is free to enter and will take place at 9pm on Friday, January 16th at The Lord Bagenal Inn in Leighlinbridge, Co Carlow.

Web: itm.ie/stalliontrail