It’s Friday, April 24, 2026, and a compelling blend of competitive handicaps and quality stakes races are on the global racing calendar. From the hallowed turf of Keeneland in the United States to the bustling tracks of Australia and the historic courses of the UK and France, horsemen and enthusiasts have a full slate of action to anticipate.
In the United States, Keeneland concludes its Spring Meet with a card featuring the $350,000 GIII Bewitch Stakes. This 1 1/2-mile turf race for fillies and mares is a highlight of the season, marking the end of a successful meet that has showcased some of the finest Thoroughbred talent.
Across the pond, Doncaster in the United Kingdom offers a full day of racing with multiple contests, including the 1:30 PM, 2:15 PM, and 2:50 PM races, among others. Meanwhile, Sandown hosts significant races such as the bet365 Esher Cup Handicap and the bet365 Gordon Richards Stakes, providing a strong exhibition of British racing prowess. Perth also features in the ITV Racing schedule with events like the QuinnBet Highland National Handicap Chase.
Australia presents a diverse racing program, with Cranbourne Racecourse hosting several handicap and maiden races throughout the evening. Tamworth Cup is another key event in Australia, featuring the Tamworth Cup itself and the McDonald’s Tamworth Country Magic Handicap.
In France, Saint-Cloud Racecourse is set for a full day of races, including the Prix Amour Drake and the Prix Sicarelle, offering a taste of European flat racing.
Japan’s racing scene is highlighted by events at Kanazawa and Urawa, with various handicap and maiden races scheduled.
Keeneland’s Spring Meet, running through April 24, 2026, has been a significant event, featuring 19 stakes races with a total purse of $9.55 million. The track has been a focal point for the season, with racing concluding today. The track conditions at Cranbourne are reported as GOOD 4, with cloudy weather and a maximum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius.