York Racecourse Retains Top Spot With Owners

York Racecourse is honoured that it has been ranked Number 1 by the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) for 2025, so retaining top spot in their detailed and comprehensive annual assessment of all UK racecourses.

York posted an impressive 97% score over a range of criteria by an expert, independent mystery shopper and scored highly in a survey completed by owners after they experienced a day of racing at York. The award comes after York welcomed a record number of runners to the Knavesmire in 2025 including a record number from overseas. The average field size at York is the highest of any racecourse in the UK.

The assessment also confirms that York Racecourse retains its standing as part of the ROA Gold Standard Award programme.

Speaking about the accolade, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course William Derby said, “It is a huge honour to again be ranked as the Number 1 racecourse in the UK by the Racehorse Owners Association. Owners are the biggest investors in the sport and such an important customer group. Moreover, they bring their thoroughbred horses to the Knavesmire for us all to enjoy. It is a great credit to both the York Race Committee and the team involved that the record investment in prize money, the continuous investment in facilities for both owners and their horses and the welcome and hospitality for owners has been recognised in this accolade. It is now less than 100 days until racing returns on Wednesday 13 May, so we will be working hard to retain the crown!”