Star Sports has been announced as the new sponsor of Sandown Park's Brigadier Gerard Evening, scheduled for Thursday, 29 May 2025.

The Brighton-based independent bookmaker will sponsor all six races on the card, including two Group 3 contests.

The sponsored races include the Group 3 Henry II Stakes and the feature Group 3 Brigadier Gerard Stakes, which has attracted notable winners including Hukum in 2023, who subsequently claimed victory in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot.

The complete racing schedule runs from 6:05pm to 8:40pm, with gates opening at 4:15pm.

Known as 'London's Night at the Races', the event benefits from Sandown Park's accessibility via a direct 30-minute train service from London Waterloo, positioning it as an attractive option for spectators seeking Flat racing entertainment during the spring season.

Commenting on the development, Flynn Goward, Managing Director at Star Sports, stated: “Brigadier Gerard Evening from Sandown is always one of the great evening meetings of the Flat season and we’re delighted to be sponsoring all six races on the card for the first time.

“Watching such marquee races from our racecourse pitch at Sandown and from our office in Hove will give us all at Star a great sense of pride.”

Good to know: The sponsorship represents continued expansion for Star Sports following the launch of their ‘Brighton Owners Series’, which offers a £10,000 ($13,500) prize to the leading owner or syndicate at Brighton racecourse this season

Sarah Drabwell, Sandown Park General Manager, added: “The Brigadier Gerard Evening has long held a distinguished place in the Flat racing calendar, regularly drawing top-class horses and serious racing interest.

“‘London’s Night At The Races’ offers a rare blend of elite sport and a summer evening out with two Group 3 contests and a strong supporting card.

“It’s an occasion that reflects both the heritage and ambition of Sandown Park and with Star Sports supporting the entire fixture, we look forward to staging a race night of real quality just a short journey from central London.”

This partnership follows an eventful year for Star Sports, including its expansion into the Australian market and the appointment of Sir Philip Davies as Group Chairman at the end of 2024.

Source