All-Weather Track at Tipperary Receives Government Go-Ahead

[Wandering Eyes]

Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has received approval from the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, to proceed with the development of a second all-weather track in Ireland at Tipperary Racecourse.

The approval of the final business case is the last permission required under the Government's Infrastructure Guidelines. It will allow HRI to complete the procurement process with a main contractor and the specialist sub-contractors providing the lighting and surface for the new track. It is expected that contracts will be signed in early-December, at which point further details will be announced.

It is anticipated that work will commence on the new all-weather track in Q1 2026 and is to be completed by the end of Q3 2027, with a view to staging a full winter race programme in 2027/28.

Minister Heydon said, “I am delighted to announce that my Department has approved the development of a new all-weather track at Tipperary Racecourse. The project, which forms a central initiative within Horse Racing Ireland's current strategic plan, will support the future growth and continued success of the horse racing industry in Ireland.

“The approval of this project demonstrates my continued commitment to supporting a sector that plays such an important role in the rural economy and in the social and cultural fabric of Ireland. This support has helped maintain Ireland's world-class reputation for excellence in horse racing. This project will further enhance this incredible reputation.”

Suzanne Eade, CEO of HRI, added, “Today represents a very significant and welcome milestone in bringing to fruition the development of a second Irish all-weather track at Tipperary Racecourse. This vital project will create a huge economic stimulus for Tipperary, both town and county, creating jobs, supporting local businesses and driving tourism.

“It will also provide a major boost to racing throughout the south of the country, providing accessible racing and training facilities, with 60% of trainers based within a 90-minute journey of the track. Tipperary as a county is at the very heart of Irish racing and the all-weather development at Tipperary Racecourse will further cement this position, delivering long-term benefits for our key, global-leading rural industry.”

Tipperary Racecourse will close for racing during construction and HRI will shortly announce alternative temporary venues for its fixtures in 2026.

Racecourse manager Andrew Hogan said, “This is very positive news for Tipperary Racecourse, the county and the wider region. This couldn't have happened without the unwavering support of the local community and wider industry.

“An independent Deloitte report in 2023 demonstrated the significant contribution of horse racing to County Tipperary, where the industry generates €329 million in expenditure. We expect this figure to grow significantly in the future with the all-weather track development at Tipperary Racecourse.

“As well as being able to stage regular Flat racing throughout the winter months, we will retain the existing turf jumping fixtures to provide year-round opportunities under both codes. We will also facilitate training on the main track and a new deep sand gallop throughout the year, providing a tremendous boost for trainers in the south.”

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