The Meydan Racecourse: A 21st-Century Cathedral of Racing
The Meydan Racecourse in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is a true marvel of modern architecture and engineering. Opened in 2010, this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the region’s passion for motorsports and its ambition to create world-class venues.
At the heart of the Meydan Racecourse is the grandstand, which stretches more than a mile long and can accommodate up to 60,000 spectators. The sheer scale of this structure is awe-inspiring, with its sleek, contemporary design and towering presence. But Meydan is more than just a racetrack – it’s a fully integrated entertainment complex, boasting a five-star trackside hotel, restaurants, and even a museum dedicated to the sport.
One of the standout features of the Meydan Racecourse is the rooftop infinity pool, which offers visitors a unique and breathtaking vantage point to watch the races. Imagine soaking in the pool while gazing out over the track, with the Dubai skyline serving as a stunning backdrop. It’s an experience that truly epitomizes the luxury and opulence associated with this venue.
But Meydan isn’t just a pretty face – it’s also a hub for some of the world’s most prestigious races. The Dubai World Cup, one of the richest horse races in the world, calls this venue home. In 2019, the prize fund for this event was boosted to a staggering $12 million, with the winner taking home an eye-watering $7.2 million. This level of investment and commitment to the sport is a clear indication of Dubai’s ambition to cement its place as a global motorsports destination.
Feld Entertainment, the company responsible for producing iconic shows like Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey and Monster Jam, recognizes the importance of these breathtaking motorsport stadiums. As they create memories and moments that “light up arenas, stadiums, stages, homes, and hearts around the world,” the company’s passion for delivering awe-inspiring experiences to families is evident.
The White Turf: Racing on the Frozen Lake of St. Moritz
If the grandeur and opulence of the Meydan Racecourse represent one end of the spectrum, then the White Turf event in St. Moritz, Switzerland, offers a completely different, yet equally captivating, motorsport experience.
Held on the frozen surface of Lake Engadin, the White Turf event is a true winter wonderland for racing enthusiasts. Instead of the traditional racetrack, horses and jockeys compete on a 2,700-meter icy course, with the majestic Engadine mountains serving as a breathtaking backdrop.
The event, which takes place over three days each year, attracts more than 35,000 spectators, drawn in by the unique blend of gallop and trotting races, as well as the fan-favorite skijöring competition. In skijöring, skiers are pulled behind unsaddled horses, creating a thrilling and visually stunning spectacle.
The upmarket ski resort of St. Moritz, known for its world-class winter sports, glitz, and glamor, provides the perfect setting for this one-of-a-kind motorsport event. As CNN reports, the White Turf event offers a “sublime setting” for racegoers to savor the sport of kings against the backdrop of a frozen lake and snow-capped peaks.
Flemington Racecourse: Australia’s Iconic “Race That Stops a Nation”
Across the globe, in the heart of Melbourne, Australia, lies another remarkable motorsport venue: the Flemington Racecourse. This historic racetrack, first used in 1840 when the city was just five years old, has become a cultural and sporting icon, not just in Australia but around the world.
The Melbourne Cup, held annually at Flemington, is widely known as the “race that stops a nation.” This prestigious event, which features a prize pot of around $5.3 million, attracts racegoers and spectators from all walks of life, transforming the venue into a kaleidoscope of color and energy during the event.
What sets Flemington apart is its rich history and the role it plays in the cultural fabric of Australia. As the oldest metropolitan racecourse in the country, Flemington has witnessed the evolution of the sport and its ever-growing significance in the nation’s psyche.
The revamped venue, with its historic grandstand and modern amenities, provides a stunning backdrop for the races. Fans can enjoy the action while taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding city, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
As the home of the Melbourne Cup, Flemington Racecourse has cemented its place as one of the most iconic motorsport venues in the world. Its rich history, cultural significance, and breathtaking setting make it a must-visit destination for any passionate racing enthusiast.
The Piazza del Campo: Italy’s Medieval Pageantry of the Palio di Siena
While the previous stadiums have showcased the pinnacle of modern motorsport architecture and design, the Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy, offers a completely different kind of motorsport experience – one that is rooted in centuries-old tradition and medieval pageantry.
The Palio di Siena, a horse race held twice a year in July and August, takes place in the central piazza of Siena, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site. The race, which dates back to medieval times when it was first held on buffalo, is widely regarded as the “toughest horse race in the world.”
What makes the Palio di Siena so unique is its setting – the racetrack is literally the square itself, with spectators lining the four sides and the center, creating an arena-like atmosphere. The jockeys, who wear the colors of their respective districts, ride bareback, adding to the sheer intensity and danger of the event.
CNN describes the Piazza del Campo as “simply put, there is no racecourse in the world quite like the Piazza del Campo in Italy.” The historic setting, the medieval traditions, and the high-stakes competition all come together to create a truly one-of-a-kind motorsport experience.
As visitors wander the cobblestone streets of Siena and witness the Palio di Siena, they are transported back in time, immersed in a spectacle that has captivated audiences for centuries. The Piazza del Campo, with its stunning architecture and rich history, serves as the perfect backdrop for this unique and exhilarating event.
Happy Valley Racecourse: Hong Kong’s Urban Motorsport Sanctuary
While the previous stadiums have showcased the grandeur of natural settings and historic traditions, the Happy Valley Racecourse in Hong Kong offers a completely different kind of motorsport experience – one that is firmly rooted in the heart of a bustling urban landscape.
Nestled amongst the towering skyscrapers of Hong Kong, the Happy Valley Racecourse was originally constructed in 1845 to provide racing entertainment for British expats in the city. Today, it continues to be a beloved and iconic venue, attracting local fans and tourists alike with its unique blend of high-octane racing and vibrant urban atmosphere.
The racecourse’s seven-story stands can accommodate up to 55,000 spectators, creating an electric and lively environment on race days. But what truly sets Happy Valley apart is its scenic backdrop – the surrounding skyscrapers and apartments provide a stunning contrast to the action on the track, offering visitors an “unusually beautiful” experience, as CNN reports.
Beyond the races, the Happy Valley Racecourse has also become a popular gathering place for the local community, with a beer garden, live music, and entertainment between races. The venue’s “Happy Wednesday” events, in particular, have become a beloved after-work tradition for many in Hong Kong.
The Happy Valley Racecourse’s unique location and vibrant atmosphere make it a true standout in the world of motorsport venues. It’s a testament to the versatility and adaptability of the sport, showcasing how it can thrive even in the heart of a bustling urban landscape.
Ascot Racecourse: The Epitome of British Elegance and Tradition
If there’s one motorsport venue that epitomizes the elegance, tradition, and grandeur associated with the sport, it’s the Ascot Racecourse in the United Kingdom.
Opened in 1711 by Queen Anne, Ascot has long been one of the most celebrated venues on the horse racing calendar. Its association with the British royal family, who have attended the races since the venue’s inception, has cemented its reputation as a bastion of high-society and refined tastes.
The Royal Ascot event, held annually in June, is the undisputed highlight of the Ascot calendar. During this five-day extravaganza, the Queen and other members of the royal family make their grand entrance, joined by more than 300,000 racegoers who come to enjoy the spectacle of world-class racing and high fashion.
But Ascot is more than just a venue for the elite – it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport. With 55 million in prize money, it’s the most valuable race meeting in Britain, attracting the best horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world.
The racecourse itself is a marvel of design, featuring two tracks – flat and jumps – set amidst a picturesque greensward just six miles from Windsor Castle. The grandstand, with its distinctive architecture, provides a stunning backdrop for the races, adding to the overall sense of elegance and tradition that defines the Ascot experience.
As CNN notes, the Ascot Racecourse “conjures visions of royalty, elegance, high fashion and world-class racing.” It’s a venue that has stood the test of time, remaining a true icon of the sport and a must-visit destination for any motorsport enthusiast.
Chantilly Racecourse: A Fairytale Setting for French Equestrian Excellence
In the rolling countryside north of Paris, nestled in front of the breathtaking Château de Chantilly, lies another remarkable motorsport venue: the Chantilly Racecourse.
Established in 1832, this historic racetrack boasts a spectacular and timeless setting, with the majestic 16th-century château serving as a stunning backdrop. The Great Stables, built in 1719 by the estate’s owner, the Prince of Condé, add to the grandeur and elegance of the venue.
Chantilly has long been a hub for French equestrian excellence, hosting prestigious races like the Prix du Jockey-Club and the Prix de Diane Longines. These events, which celebrate the pinnacle of the sport, draw in crowds of racegoers and fashion enthusiasts alike, creating a unique blend of athletic competition and sartorial elegance.
In 2016 and 2017, Chantilly even had the honor of hosting the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Europe’s most valuable horse race, while its traditional home, the Longchamp Racecourse, underwent a major renovation. This temporary relocation further cemented Chantilly’s status as a premier motorsport destination, showcasing its ability to host the sport’s most prestigious events.
As CNN describes, the Chantilly Racecourse is “spectacular and timeless,” nestled amidst a “tree-lined tract” and complemented by the fairytale-like château. It’s a venue that seamlessly blends the grandeur of the past with the thrill of modern motorsport, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Laytown Races: The Unique Beach Spectacle of the Irish Coast
While most motorsport venues are designed with the sport and its spectators in mind, the Laytown Races in Ireland offer a truly unique and captivating experience – one that takes place on the sandy beaches of the Irish coast.
This annual event, which has been held for over 150 years, is the only official beach race in Europe. Each year, the stretch of sand near the town of Laytown, just outside of Dublin, is transformed into a makeshift racetrack, with spectators lining the dunes to witness the spectacle.
Organizers of the Laytown Races must work against the clock and the tides to set up the track and enclosures, creating a true race against nature. This added element of unpredictability and the sheer ingenuity required to pull off such an event only adds to the thrill and excitement for both the participants and the audience.
CNN reports that the Laytown Races attract more than 5,000 visitors each year, drawn in by the unique setting and the long-standing tradition of this one-of-a-kind motorsport event. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and the human desire to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
As visitors to the Laytown Races witness the horses thundering down the beach, they are treated to a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The combination of the natural setting, the high-stakes competition, and the centuries-old tradition make this event a must-see for any motorsport enthusiast.
Goodwood: The Epitome of English Elegance and Tradition
In the rolling hills of Sussex, England, lies another motorsport venue that epitomizes the grandeur and elegance of the sport: the Goodwood Racecourse.
Goodwood is the embodiment of English tradition and sophistication, with its glistening white grandstand and the stunning Sussex countryside serving as a breathtaking backdrop. The venue has been hosting some of the most prestigious Flat races in Europe since 1802, solidifying its status as a true jewel in the crown of the British racing calendar.
The Glorious Goodwood meeting, held annually in late July and early August, is the undisputed highlight of the Goodwood calendar. This five-day racing festival combines world-class Grade 1 races with a celebration of high fashion and social elegance, attracting racegoers from all over the world.
As CNN describes, the Goodwood Racecourse is the “epitome of Englishness,” with its picturesque setting and the “glistening white grandstand” creating a truly unforgettable experience for all who visit.
The undulating course at Goodwood also presents a unique challenge for the horses and jockeys, testing their skill and endurance to the fullest. This combination of natural beauty, historic significance, and athletic excellence makes Goodwood a must-visit destination for any true motorsport enthusiast.
As the Old Stadium Journey website highlights, the world is home to many incredible sports venues, but not all of them are immediately surrounded by such breathtaking and picturesque settings. Goodwood is a shining example of a motorsport venue that seamlessly blends the thrill of the sport with the splendor of its natural environment.
Cheltenham Racecourse: A Jewel in the Crown of National Hunt Racing
While the world of Flat racing may be more associated with glitz, glamor, and high society, the sport of National Hunt racing has its own unique charm and appeal. And at the heart of this realm stands the Cheltenham Racecourse, a venue that offers one of the most stunning settings in the world of motorsports.
