Horse races are sporting events that stand out with their old-timey traditions, strict dress code, and high society ties.
It's not unusual to see royalty, world-class celebrities, and billionaires in attendance, and the fashion deserves a whole other chapter!
There are many races annually worldwide, but some attract the creme de la creme, challenge the jockeys, and stun with unique traditions and customs.
Here are the most prestigious horse races in the world.
The Grand National
This annual race takes place in the UK and is the most-watched horse race globally, with more than half a billion viewers! The bets here reach millions, and the best jockeys and their teams compete for a large prize.
It is the most valuable jump race in Europe, with a prize fund of close to 1.5 million dollars.
The Grand National has inspired movies, TV shows, and even online casino games.
The Kentucky Derby
The US state of Kentucky is famous for its bourbon and The Kentucky Derby, a part of the Triple Crown competition.
Many American celebrities, socialites, and millionaires attend this event, and the media extensively covers everything from race results to fashion choices.
The race price is 3 million dollars, which surely gives the jockeys the added boost of motivation.
You can look at the list of contenders here: https://www.twinspires.com/kentuckyderby/contenders
The Preakness Stakes
According to Pastthewire.com, along with the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes, this race forms the Triple Crown and offers a hefty $1.5 million prize purse in its own right.
The race started in 1873 and during the years has become more prestigious and has given the equestrian world many historic moments.
A century after its establishment, the legendary racehorse Secretariat set a race record here as part of its Triple Crown win in 1973.
The Belmont Stakes
Another American race is held every June at Belmont Park in Elmont, NY.
As Ladyandthetrack.com explains, The Belmont Stakes is the last race of the Triple Crown series, and for 140 years, fans have filled the park to watch it.
The attendance at the Belmont Stakes is among the American thoroughbred racing top attended events. It's also called "The Test of the Champion" as the longest of the three Triple Crown races.
The Royal Ascot
Even those who know nothing about horseracing have probably heard about The Royal Ascot in the UK.
Queen Elizabeth II always attends the race together with some of her family members.
The race and the entire 5-day event are very official and have many ceremonies, rules, and customs. And if there's a place you need to adhere to a strict dress code, it's here.
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
Each fall, usually the first Saturday of October, the famous race Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe takes place in Paris. Its name honors the French soldiers who fought in WWI.
The winner of it receives 10,5 million dollars making for one of the richest paydays in all any sports. No wonder it has jockeys from all over the world competing for this mindblowing amount of money!
The Europe's most prestigious race started in mid 19th century and is often referred to as the "Arc". Its produced many highly acclaimed horses and champion jockeys.
Even during the Second World War, the race was held when Le Tremblay hosted the event in 1943 and the next year.
The Melbourne Cup
The whole of Australia stops during The Melbourne Cup, which began in 1861.
It's even called "the race that stops the nation" and is the most prestigious 2-mile handicap in the world. Fans and tourists from all over the world travel to witness this event.
This race competes for over 3,200 meters, and the prize pot is over 5 million dollars.
The Dubai World Cup
Like most things in the region, The Dubai World Cup is a newbie in the racing world, and it started in 1996.
Usually hosted in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, the race is also a fashion podium showcasing the riches and newest trends.
Since its 2019 running, the race's prize pot is $12 million, making it the world's richest horse race.