Towcester given nod for 2026 English Derby by GBGB panel

TOWCESTER will stage the English Greyhound Derby once again in 2026.

The news effectively ensures the Northamptonshire venue will complete the five-year deal originally agreed with Kevin Boothby who is leaving the track shortly with Mike Davis’ Orchestrate taking full control of the operation.

A GBGB statement read: “GBGB is pleased to announce that, following consideration from a panel of greyhound owners, trainers, racecourse promoters and other stakeholders, it has awarded the 2026 English Greyhound Derby contract to Towcester Racecourse.

“Towcester which has hosted the Derby for seven of the past ten years, recently changed ownership necessitating the bid process for 2026.”

Mark Moisley, the GBGB’s commercial director, said: “We are pleased to announce Towcester as the venue for the 2026 English Greyhound Derby today and thank all those involved in the Derby Panel for their time in considering this decision.

“Towcester has been an exciting and successful Derby venue over the years, drawing in the highest standard of racers from across the UK and Ireland as well as hosting excellent crowds and offering a range of events and attractions throughout the competition.

“Next year‘s event will start on Thursday 30th April with the final taking place on Saturday 6th June.“

“We are grateful to Dunstall Park for also submitting a strong proposal. Whilst both tracks are worthy venues, given one is under new ownership and the other a new track, the panel felt the correct course of action was to award the contract for one year only with a review planned for June of next year.”

The Derby Panel consisted of: Peter Cadman (chair), GBGB board director Katie Bennison, trainer Kim Billingham-Hine, owner and GBGB board director Tony Brealey, GBGB senior stipendiary steward Duncan Gibson, journalist Jonathan Kay, trainer John Mullins and Mark Moisley.