What Is the King George VI Chase?
The King George VI Chase is a Grade 1 National Hunt steeplechase run on Boxing Day at Kempton Park Racecourse in Surrey, England. Contested over three miles on Kempton’s flat, right-handed track, the race is widely regarded as the most prestigious steeplechase outside of the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National. The King George attracts the best chasers from Britain and Ireland each year, and victory in the race is considered one of the highest achievements in jump racing.
When Is the King George VI Chase?
The 2026 King George VI Chase takes place on Saturday 26 December, Boxing Day. The race is the feature event on a high-quality card at Kempton Park, with the main contest typically going off in the early to mid-afternoon. The supporting programme includes several valuable handicaps and conditions races.
Where Is the King George VI Chase?
Kempton Park Racecourse is located in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, approximately 16 miles south-west of central London. The course is well served by rail, with Kempton Park station adjacent to the racecourse and direct trains from London Waterloo. By road, the course is close to the M3 motorway. Kempton’s flat track, with its easy turns and emphasis on speed, produces a different test to the undulating Cheltenham course.
Key Contenders and What to Watch For
The King George regularly brings together the best chasers in training. The race favours horses with a combination of speed and stamina, and the flat Kempton track means pace is a significant factor. Recent renewals have been dominated by runners from the top stables in Britain and Ireland, with trainers such as Paul Nicholls, Nicky Henderson, and Willie Mullins all targeting the race as a key mid-season championship event. The race also serves as a pointer to the Cheltenham Gold Cup, with several King George winners going on to Gold Cup glory in March.
How to Watch the King George VI Chase
The King George VI Chase is broadcast live on ITV in the United Kingdom, as part of the channel’s flagship Boxing Day racing coverage. Racing TV also provides full live coverage of the Kempton card. International viewers can access the race through Racing TV’s online streaming platform.
History of the King George VI Chase
First run in 1937 and named after the reigning monarch, the race was moved to Kempton Park in 1947 and has been a Boxing Day fixture ever since. The roll of honour includes many of the greatest steeplechasers of all time. Kauto Star holds the record with five victories between 2006 and 2011. Desert Orchid’s legendary 1989 triumph in heavy ground remains one of the most celebrated moments in National Hunt racing history. Other notable winners include Arkle, Wayward Lad, and Clan Des Obeaux.
Tickets for the King George VI Chase
Tickets are available through the Kempton Park Racecourse website and the Jockey Club’s official channels. General admission, Premier Enclosure, and hospitality packages are offered. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as the Boxing Day meeting is one of the most popular fixtures in the racing calendar and regularly draws large crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distance is the King George VI Chase?
The race is run over three miles (approximately 4,828 metres), with horses jumping 18 fences around Kempton’s flat, right-handed track.
Is the King George VI Chase a good guide to the Cheltenham Gold Cup?
It can be. Several horses have completed the King George-Gold Cup double, though the two races present different challenges. Kempton’s flat track rewards speed, while Cheltenham’s undulations demand stamina.
How do I get to Kempton Park on Boxing Day?
Train services run from London Waterloo to Kempton Park station, which is adjacent to the racecourse. By car, the course is close to Junction 1 of the M3. Free parking is available on site.
Who has won the most King George VI Chases?
Kauto Star holds the record with five victories (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011). Among trainers, Paul Nicholls has the most wins with over a dozen victories in the race.