The Longines Hong Kong International Races take place on 10 December 2026 at Sha Tin Racecourse, featuring four Group 1 contests that together form one of the most prestigious race days on the global thoroughbred racing calendar. The Hong Kong Cup (2,000m), Hong Kong Mile (1,600m), Hong Kong Sprint (1,200m) and Hong Kong Vase (2,400m) attract leading horses from Japan, Europe, Australasia and the Americas, making this one of the most internationally competitive fixtures in the sport.
What Are the Hong Kong International Races?
The Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) is an annual race meeting organised by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, held since 1994 in its current four-race format. The meeting serves as the year-end championship of Asian racing and a genuine world-class event. Each of the four Group 1 races covers a different distance, ensuring specialists across all divisions are represented: sprinters, milers, middle-distance performers and stayers. The HKIR is renowned for its meticulous organisation, substantial prize money (with purses among the highest in world racing) and a standard of competition that rivals the Breeders’ Cup and Royal Ascot.
When Are the Hong Kong International Races 2026?
All four Group 1 races take place on a single race day, Thursday 10 December 2026, at Sha Tin Racecourse. The card typically features eight to ten races in total, with the four championship contests forming the centrepiece of the programme. First race is usually around 12:30 PM Hong Kong Time (4:30 AM GMT), with the feature races scheduled through the afternoon. The entire meeting concludes by approximately 6:00 PM local time.
Where Are the Hong Kong International Races 2026?
Sha Tin Racecourse is located in the New Territories of Hong Kong, approximately 30 minutes from Central by MTR (metro). The racecourse, which opened in 1978, has a capacity of approximately 85,000 and features a straight 1,000-metre course alongside the main oval track. The facilities are among the finest in world racing, with excellent sightlines from grandstand and trackside positions. Sha Tin is served by the Racecourse MTR station, which opens on race days and provides direct access to the venue. Hong Kong International Airport is approximately one hour from the racecourse by public transport.
Key Contenders
Japanese-trained runners have dominated the HKIR in recent years, with their exceptional depth in middle-distance and miling divisions making them formidable contenders across all four races. Leading Japanese trainers regularly target the meeting, and runners such as previous Hong Kong Cup winners Romantic Warrior and Win Marilyn underline the quality. Locally trained Hong Kong horses, conditioned by trainers such as John Size and Frankie Lor, have the advantage of racing on their home track. European challengers from Britain, France and Ireland add international depth, while Australian sprinters and stayers regularly make the journey. The Hong Kong Sprint is particularly competitive, attracting the world’s best short-distance performers.
How to Watch the Hong Kong International Races
In the United Kingdom, the HKIR is broadcast on Sky Sports Racing. Racing TV may also carry coverage depending on scheduling agreements. In Australia, Sky Racing provides live broadcasts. The Hong Kong Jockey Club offers live streaming through its official website and mobile app for account holders. Racing fans in other territories can access coverage through their local racing broadcast partners or through international simulcast services. The early morning GMT start time means UK and European fans can watch live over breakfast.
History of the Hong Kong International Races
The Hong Kong International Races were established in their current four-race format in 1994, though international racing in Hong Kong dates back to the Hong Kong Invitation Cup in 1988. The meeting has grown from a regional curiosity into one of the world’s must-attend racing events. Memorable winners include Silent Witness (four consecutive Hong Kong Sprint victories), Able Friend (Hong Kong Mile), and Verry Elleegant (Hong Kong Vase). The HKIR has played a significant role in elevating Asian racing on the global stage and continues to attract the sport’s leading owners, trainers and jockeys. Prize money for the four races totals approximately HK$100 million (around GBP 10 million).
Tickets for the Hong Kong International Races
General admission to Sha Tin Racecourse on HKIR day is available to the public, with standard entry fees among the most affordable of any major international race meeting. Premium badges, which grant access to Members’ Enclosure areas and hospitality facilities, are available through the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Hospitality packages with dining, private viewing and betting facilities can be booked through the HKJC or authorised event partners. Given the international significance of the meeting, premium options sell out well in advance. Hong Kong offers a vast range of accommodation across all price points, with the MTR network making most locations convenient for reaching Sha Tin on race day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists attend the Hong Kong International Races?
Yes. The HKIR is open to international visitors. A valid passport or Hong Kong ID card is required for entry, and visitors aged 18 and over may access the racecourse and place bets.
What time do the races start in UK time?
Racing at Sha Tin typically begins around 4:30 AM GMT, with the feature Group 1 races running through the morning GMT. It is an early start but manageable for dedicated racing fans.
Is betting available at the racecourse?
Yes. The Hong Kong Jockey Club operates extensive on-course betting facilities. International visitors aged 18 and over can place bets at the track. UK bookmakers also offer ante-post and race-day markets on all four Group 1 races.
How do I get to Sha Tin Racecourse?
The Racecourse MTR station opens on race days and is located directly adjacent to the venue. From Central station, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes on the East Rail Line.