York has retained its top spot as the best ranked racecourse by the Racehorse Owners’ Association.

York posted an impressive 97 per cent score over a range of criteria by an expert, independent mystery shopper and scored highly in a survey completed by owners after they experienced a day of racing at York.

It comes after York welcomed a record number of runners to the Knavesmire in 2025 including a record number from overseas, with the average field size (number of horses running in each race) being the highest of any racecourse in the UK.

Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course at York William Derby said: “It is a huge honour to again be ranked as the Number 1 racecourse in the UK by the Racehorse Owners’ Association.

"Owners are the biggest investors in the sport and such an important customer group. Moreover, they bring their thoroughbred horses to the Knavesmire for us all to enjoy.

"It is a great credit to both the York Race Committee and the team involved that the record investment in prize money, the continuous investment in facilities for both owners and their horses and the welcome and hospitality for owners has been recognised in this accolade. It is now less than 100 days until racing returns on Wednesday May 13, so we will be working hard to retain the crown.”