The Gávea Hippodrome turns 100 years old in 2026 and will be the center of attention during the Brazilian Grand Prix, the main horse race on the national racing calendar. The event takes place between the 13th and 16th of June, at the Jockey Club Brasileiro, in Rio de Janeiro.
Over the course of a century, the hippodrome hosted sporting, cultural and social events that marked the city’s history. Now, the centenary celebration brings together horse racing, recreational activities and gastronomic options for different audiences.
Raul Lima Neto, president of the Brazilian Jockey Club, highlighted the importance of the date for the institution.
“The Gávea Hippodrome reaches its centenary more alive than ever. It is here that generations meet, that families create memories and that Brazil knows the greatness of racing. In this Brazilian Grand Prix, we toast to the glorious past and the future that we are building together.”
Who competes in the 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix
The main highlight of the sports program will be the 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix, considered one of the most traditional competitions in Brazilian racing.
In total, 17 horses are registered in the race. Among the participants are Oderich, winner of the Carioca Derby, and Zucca Baby, champion of the São Paulo Jockey Club Grand Prix.
Other confirmed competitors include Mc Arrocha, winner of the preparatory race for the Brazil GP, as well as Zandor, Que Emoção, Valparaiso, Quero Te Mucho and Summer from Iguassu.
Among the coaches, the names of Luiz Esteves and Venâncio Nahid stand out, who have accumulated the highest number of victories in the competition among active professionals.
What the public finds beyond the races
The program also includes activities aimed at children and families. On June 13th and 14th, the mascot Turfinho will participate in attractions aimed at children. Among the planned activities are storytelling, artistic painting, themed makeup, recreational workshops and character presentations.
Craft workshops will allow children to personalize versions of the mascot or hobbyhorse models inspired by the traditional colors of the Brazilian Jockey Club. Meanwhile, visitors will also have access to gastronomic options distributed throughout the hippodrome areas.
How the structure will work for visitors
The organization informed that food trucks and restaurants installed in the complex will operate throughout the program. Among the establishments available are Derby Bar, Giappo, Casa Camolese, Páreo, Maguje and Rubaiyat.
The parking lot operated by Estapar has limited capacity. Therefore, the recommendation is to use public transport or app services on busy days.
Visitors who present proof of visit to the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden will be able to obtain a 30% discount on parking there.
What are the rules for access to the event
The entry of external food will not be permitted, with the exception of water, food intended for babies and items related to medical restrictions. Additionally, pets will not be able to access the racing area. According to the organizers, the measure seeks to preserve the safety of the public, the horses and the animals themselves.
Visitors must also observe dress code rules. On June 14th, access to the Social Tribune requires sports attire. On the third floor, it will be mandatory to wear leisure attire, complete with suit and tie.
On other days, sports attire will be accepted. However, clothing with political content and flip-flops remain prohibited in certain areas of the complex.
Where to watch the races live
The 2026 Brazil Grand Prix races will be broadcast on TV Turfe, available on Claro NET channel 4 and on YouTube. Furthermore, the public will be able to follow the races through the Jockey Club Brasileiro’s betting portal and through the entity’s official social networks.