Down Royal Partners with Leading Irish Bookmaker for festive finale to 2025
Down Royal Racecourse is delighted to announce a new partnership with BAR 1 Betting, who will become the new title sponsor for its highly anticipated annual Boxing Day fixture. The event, a highlight of the Irish racing calendar, will now be officially known as the BAR 1 Betting Boxing Day Races.
One of Ireland’s best-known independent bookmakers, Bar One Racing, has officially rebranded to BAR 1 Betting, marking the beginning of a bold new era for the company.
The rebrand coincides with the launch of a new website, designed to deliver a faster, smoother, and more intuitive betting experience across all sports and racing markets. The partnership with Down Royal further reinforces the company’s long-standing support of Irish racing.
The final race meeting of 2025 will feature the BAR 1 Betting Hunters Steeplechase, promising an unforgettable day of top-tier racing action and festive cheer to close out the year.
CEO of BAR 1 Betting, Barney O’Hare, said: “Partnering with Down Royal Racecourse as the new title sponsor for this iconic Boxing Day fixture is a natural fit for BAR 1 Betting. The event captures the imagination of racing fans and the wider public during the festive season, and sponsoring the final meeting of the year gives us a valuable opportunity to connect with a passionate audience. We look forward to a fantastic day of competitive racing and celebrating Christmas with everyone at Down Royal.
Emma Meehan, Chief Executive at Down Royal Racecourse, added: “We are incredibly excited to welcome BAR 1 Betting as our new title sponsor. Their reputation as a leading independent bookmaker and their genuine commitment to Irish racing makes them the ideal partner. We anticipate a phenomenal day and encourage everyone to secure their tickets and packages early for the perfect continuation of the Christmas celebrations and a stylish send-off to the year.”
Gates for the BAR 1 Betting Boxing Day Races open at 10.30am, with the first race taking place at 11.40am.
The general admission ticket includes entry to the racetrack and a racecard, plus access to a variety of festive venues: the Grandstand Bar (with hot food and tea and coffee counters), the Dark Horse Wine Bar, and the Madri Marquee serving cocktails, and mulled wine.
For full details on the BAR 1 Betting Boxing Day race meeting or to book tickets, please visit: https://downroyal.com/tickets/
To visit BAR 1 Betting’s brand new website, visit https://www.bar1betting.com


