Fashion judge revealed for big racing weekend at Curragh
Racegoers will have the opportunity to meet iconic Liverpool FC figures
The Curragh Racecourse is set to host the Juddmonte Irish Oaks Weekendon Saturday and Sunday - July 18 and 19 - bringing together elite racing, innovative fashion experiences, Liverpool FC legends, family entertainment and unforgettable moments both on and off the track.
The Liverpool FC Foundation is a race sponsor on Irish Oaks Day, bringing a series of exciting fan-focused activations.
Racegoers will have the opportunity to meet iconic Liverpool FC figures, with autograph sessions and interview appearances scheduled throughout the afternoon.
Final names will be announced shortly, with additional legends revealed in the lead-up to the event.
This year, race day fashion takes a bold step forward with a contemporary, immersive style experience inspired by the lakes, gardens and natural textures surrounding Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort's Wicklow estate.
Curated by fashion commentator and stylist Emily O'Donnell, the experience moves away from traditional catwalk judging and instead celebrates personal expression, sustainability and creativity.
Throughout the day, Emily will meet racegoers across the racecourse, explore the inspiration behind their looks and spotlight those who best embody the theme. Racegoers are invited to interpret nature through their own style - whether inspired by wildflowers, Wicklow sunsets, the Blessington Lakes or organic textures.
A series of curated awards will be presented, including The Styled by Nature Award, The Sustainable Style Award, Emily's Edit and The Modern Headpiece Award. Twelve finalists will be invited to the Parade Ring ahead of The Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort Sapphire Stakes at 3.20pm, where Emily will announce the winners.
Winners of the Styled by Nature categories will enjoy exceptional luxury experiences. The overall Styled by Nature Award winner will receive exclusive private use of the seven-bedroom 18th-century Manor House at Tulfarris for one night, including a private dining experience for up to 14 guests.
The Sustainable Style Award winner will receive a two-night five-star stay at Castlemartyr Resort with breakfast and dinner for two, while the winners of Emily's Edit and the Modern Headpiece Award will each receive a one-night stay in a Manor Bedroom at Tulfarris, including a three-course dinner at the award-winning Fairways Restaurant and breakfast.
Champions Hall will host friendly match-ups between Liverpool Legends and Curragh jockeys, creating a fun and competitive spectacle for fans of both sport and racing. Young Liverpool supporters will accompany jockeys from the tunnel into the Parade Ring for the Liverpool FC Foundation race, creating unforgettable memories for families. Liverpool fans, particularly children, are encouraged to wear their Liverpool jersey for a chance to win tickets to a Premier League match at Anfield.
At the heart of the weekend sits the Juddmonte Irish Oaks, one of the most prestigious races on the global racing calendar, attracting elite fillies, renowned trainers and international attention. Saturday's card promises exceptional racing talent and a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the venue.
On Sunday, The Curragh Racecourse transforms into a family paradise for Little Oaks Race Day, featuring children's entertainment, interactive activities and the return of the hugely popular dragons. Families can enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled day with plenty of outdoor entertainment, meet-and-greets and themed experiences designed for all ages. Racing fans will also be watching Big Gossey, who returns to The Curragh fresh from his Derby Day triumph.
Speaking ahead of the festival, Brian Kavanagh, CEO of The Curragh Racecourse, said: "Juddmonte Irish Oaks Weekend is one of the highlights of our season, and this year we're proud to deliver a programme that blends world-class racing with innovative style sponsored by Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort, family entertainment and the excitement of welcoming Liverpool FC legends. It promises to be a truly memorable weekend for racegoers of all ages."
Tickets for the Juddmonte Irish Oaks Weekend are available now at the Curragh website. Under-18s go free on both days when accompanied by a paying adult.
Complimentary local return bus services, kindly sponsored by Manguard Plus, are scheduled to coincide with the main arrival and departure times of Irish Rail trains.
Timetables will be updated closer to the Juddmonte Irish Oaks Weekend and can be viewed in the travel section of the Curragh website.