Horse racing has been around for centuries and is one of the most popular sports in the world. Every year, millions of people around the globe flock to the tracks to witness some of the most thrilling and exciting events. The 8 biggest horse races in the world are some of the most anticipated and prestigious events in the world of horse racing. From the Kentucky Derby in the US to the Dubai World Cup in the UAE, these races are the ones that every horse racing enthusiast looks forward to. With millions of dollars in prize money, they attract the best jockeys, trainers and horses from around the world and are some of the most highly contested events in the sport. So, if you’re a horse racing fan, you’ll want to check out the 8 biggest horse races in the world.

The Epsom Derby

The Epsom Derby is a famous horse race held annually at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, England. It is a Group 1 flat race for three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, and is one of the three British Classics, along with the 2000 Guineas and the St. Leger Stakes. The Epsom Derby is run over a distance of 1 mile 4 furlongs (2,423 meters) and is the richest and most prestigious race in the United Kingdom. It is typically held on the first Saturday in June and is attended by thousands of spectators, including members of the royal family. The Epsom Derby is a significant event in the British social calendar and is known for its fashion, glamour, and pageantry.

Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe

The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is the biggest and most prestigious horse race in Europe. It is held annually at the Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, and it is the highlight of the French horse racing season. The race attracts the best horses from around the world and is an event of international importance. It was first run in 1920 and today offers a purse of €5 million. The race is 2,400 meters long and is open to thoroughbreds aged three years and up. It is one of the few horse races in the world that provides a prize to the winning owners, jockeys, and trainers. One of the most famous horses to have won the race is the great French horse Sea Bird II, who won it in 1965. Other horses that have won the race include Alleged, Peintre Celebre, and Treve. With the rich history and big purses, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is the must-see event in horse racing.

Melbourne Cup

The Melbourne Cup is one of the biggest horse races in the world. Every November, horse racing fans gather at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne to witness "the race that stops a nation". The race is a 3200-metre handicap and it draws some of the most talented horses, jockeys and trainers from around the world. It's become a tradition for people in Australia to dress up and watch the race, as well as place a few bets. The atmosphere is always electric, as the anticipation builds to see who will be crowned the winner of the ultimate horse race. The Melbourne Cup is also a great day for charity, with many organisations holding events and fundraisers on the day. It's a great opportunity to get involved and raise money for a good cause. All in all, the Melbourne Cup is an event that brings out the best in the racing world. Whether you're an avid horse racing fan or just looking for an exciting day out, the Melbourne Cup is one race you won't want to miss.

Dubai World Cup

Held annually since 1996, this prestigious event draws over 60,000 spectators every year. As the world’s most lucrative horse race, it offers a staggering $12 million in prize money. Not only is this the highest prize money of any horse race, it also represents the largest payout in the history of horse racing. The Dubai World Cup is held at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, a magnificent venue that features a massive grandstand with seating for over 60,000 spectators. The race features only the best horses from around the world, and is a thrilling event from start to finish. Every year, it brings together the best horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the world for an unforgettable show. It’s no wonder why the Dubai World Cup is one of the most popular and sought-after horse races in the world.

The Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby is a historic event that has been held annually in Louisville, Kentucky since 1875. It is the longest running and most prestigious horse racing event in the United States, and one of the oldest in the world. Since its inception, the Kentucky Derby has become a symbol of Southern culture and tradition, and attracts thousands of people each year. It is traditionally held on the first Saturday in May, and consists of a series of races for three-year-old thoroughbred horses. Over the years, the event has evolved to include a variety of festivities, from the lively tailgating to the high-stakes betting. It's also become a fashion show, with attendees dressed to the nines in fancy hats and outfits. Whether you're a seasoned race-goer or a first-timer, the Kentucky Derby is an experience that you won't soon forget.

Breeders' Cup Classic

The Breeders’ Cup Classic is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It's a Grade 1 thoroughbred horse race run annually, and the first Breeders’ Cup Classic took place in 1984. The race is open to horses of three years old and over, and the distance is a mile and a quarter. The purse for the Breeders’ Cup Classic is $6 million, making it one of the richest horse races in the world. The race has been won by some of the greatest thoroughbreds of all time, including the legendary Secretariat and Seattle Slew. It's a must-see event for any horse racing fan. So if you have the chance, make sure to check out the Breeders’ Cup Classic and witness some of the best horses in the world compete for one of the biggest prizes in the sport.

The Everest

The Everest Horse Race is the richest horse race in the Australia. It takes place each October at the renowned Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney, Australia. The race is for horses aged three years and older, and the purse for the event is an incredible $15 million. The course is 1,200 metres in length, and the horses must complete a total of 12 hurdles with each lap, making the race both physically and mentally demanding. The Everest is also broadcasted around the world, and in recent years, it has become one of the most popular events in the horse racing industry.

Aintree Grand National

The Aintree Grand National is one of the most famous handicap steeplechases in the world. It is run over a distance of four miles and two furlongs and involves thirty fences, making it one of the toughest races any horse could face. The race attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year and has been held at Aintree Racecourse, near Liverpool, since 1839. It is a highly anticipated event and the drama that unfolds over the course of the race makes it one of the most thrilling sporting events. The handicap system used for the race means that all horses have an equal chance of winning, and the variety of fences, ditches and open country makes it a true test of a horse's stamina, jumping ability and speed. It's no wonder that the Aintree Grand National is an event that captures the attention and imagination of spectators and punters.