The 2025 York Dante Festival promises three days of top-class flat racing on the historic Knavesmire from Wednesday 14th to Friday 16th May, marking the vibrant start of the Yorkshire racing season. Each day features a headline race that not only attracts the best equine talent but also sets the tone for the summer’s major meetings.
Day one opens with the prestigious Tattersalls Musidora Stakes, a key trial for the Epsom Oaks and a race that has launched the careers of many Classic contenders. The seven-race card also includes competitive handicaps such as the Jorvik Handicap, where course specialist Marhaba The Champ is tipped to shine, and the Churchill Tyres Handicap, featuring strong contenders like Holkham Bay and Two Tribes. The Musidora itself sees unbeaten filly Smoken aiming to extend her streak, with Whirl from the Aidan O’Brien stable providing stiff competition.
Thursday’s highlight is the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes, a pivotal trial for the Epsom Derby and a magnet for future stars of the turf. The Dante has a long history of producing Derby winners, ensuring the eyes of the racing world are firmly fixed on York for clues to the season’s Classic form.
Friday brings the festival to a climax with the Boodles Yorkshire Cup, a Group 2 contest over 1m6f, often featuring stayers with Gold Cup ambitions at Royal Ascot. The race’s roll of honour includes the legendary Stradivarius, underscoring its importance as a test for the best distance horses.
With sunny weather forecast, this year’s Dante Festival is one not to be missed.
Get the latest odds and offers for the York Dante Festival from Betfred (18+ GambleAware)
