The Jockey Club has been awarded a five-year contract to organise the Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials from 2021, following a competitive tender process.

Roy Cox, estates director at Blenheim Palace, said: “The International Horse Trials is one of our most prestigious events, attracting world-class riders to compete in this iconic competition. We are delighted its future has been secured and have every confidence The Jockey Club, with its rich history and wealth of experience, working alongside British Eventing, is the perfect combination to ensure this great event which contributes so much to the local area continues to thrive.”

Ian Renton, The Jockey Club’s Regional managing director, whose role includes the running of nearby Cheltenham Racecourse, said: “It truly is a great honour to be appointed to organise the Blenheim Palace Horse Trials for the next five years. We look forward to working closely with Blenheim Palace and British Eventing to ensure the event has a fantastic future.

“As a company we welcome nearly four million people a year to events at our venues and our team are excited to put on a fantastic show at Blenheim in keeping with the international prestige of both the Horse Trials and the palace itself.

“With the home of jump racing just 40 miles away, I’m confident there are economies of scale and cross-promotional opportunities from this partnership. Overall, we’re thrilled to be involved and thank the Blenheim Palace and British Eventing team for placing their faith in us.”

Image: Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials