A new partnership between Chester Racecourse in the UK and the New York Racing Association (NYRA) will allow winners of select Chester races—the Ormonde Stakes, Huxley Stakes, and Manhattan Stakes—to gain guaranteed entry into the prestigious Belmont Gold Cup and the $1 million Manhattan Stakes at Saratoga during the Belmont Stakes festival. This collaboration, launching in May 2026, also includes travel incentives to ease the journey for international horses and their teams, fostering greater cross-border competition.

This groundbreaking deal highlights the growing importance of international partnerships in horse racing, providing a direct pathway for European horses to compete in top American events. By connecting these historic races and offering logistical support, the initiative aims to enhance the global racing landscape, encouraging a more diverse and competitive field in major U.S. Thoroughbred races.