Royal Ascot Attendance Surges 15,000 Amid Record-Breaking Popularity

Royal Ascot is celebrating the 200th anniversary of its iconic royal procession, a tradition started by King George IV in 1825, and remains one of the strongest fixtures in British horse racing, with ticket sales up by 15,000 compared to last year. The event combines high-level international racing with a vibrant social atmosphere, attracting global competitors and major prize money, including races like the Prince of Wales’s Stakes and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes. Despite challenges in other racing events, Ascot is thriving under the leadership of CEO Felicity Barnard, who emphasizes the importance of tradition, right pricing, and global promotion to maintain its success. The meeting is also a significant soft power asset for Britain, showcasing the country’s culture and sport to an international audience. Furthermore, international participation is growing, with notable involvement from Australian trainers and New Zealand's Go Racing, which has three horses competing at Ascot this year, highlighting the event's global prestige. The combination of royal tradition, commercial savvy, and international competition ensures Royal Ascot's continued prominence on the horse racing calendar.