We are pleased to share that Racing Victoria has released the 2026 Jumps Racing Program, reaffirming its ongoing support of our sport.
The program has been released three months earlier than in previous years, providing greater certainty for trainers, riders, and owners as preparations for the 2026 season begin. Importantly, the program incorporates feedback from the AJRA, licensed participants, and host clubs as part of the post-2025 season review.
Highlights of the 2026 program include:
- Season dates: 26 March (Warrnambool) – 16 August (Sportsbet Ballarat – Grand National Steeplechase).
- Restructured calendar: Two streams of meetings to better manage horse numbers and maintain competitive field sizes.
- Program composition: 53 programmed races (33 hurdles, 20 steeplechases) across 16 meetings at seven venues.
- Stable prizemoney levels: Consistent with 2025 funding.
- Emerging horse focus: BM120 races converted to BM115 to strengthen the development pathway.
- Enhanced trial schedule: Late-season trials at Coleraine (20 July) and early August.
Racing Victoria also advises that key result areas such as safety metrics, participation rates and economic impacts will be continued to be reviewed at the conclusion of each jumps racing season by RV’s Jumps Taskforce. A separate broader review of jumps racing originally flagged for the conclusion of the 2027 season will not proceed unless key result areas require the RV Board to commission one.
The AJRA acknowledges Racing Victoria’s continued collaboration and the positive steps being taken to ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of jumps racing in Victoria.
To read the official Racing Victoria Industry Notice and the full 2026 Jumps Racing Program click below.
