Rupert Trevelyan, Managing Director of Epsom Downs Racecourse commented, “We are delighted that Investec have agreed to extend their sponsorship for a further 10 years. They are a fantastic brand to work with, very forward thinking and proactive, and we will continue to work in collaboration with them to develop the Investec Derby Festival. It is only fitting for such a prestigious event like the Derby to have such a high profile, committed and long term partner.”
Trevelyan added, “The recently announced prize money increases were a direct consequence of Investec’s intention to strengthen their relationship with Epsom and the Derby Festival. In March we announced an increase of £25,000 to £350,000 for the Investec Oaks, a £50,000 increase to £300,000 for the Diamond Jubilee Coronation Cup (sponsored by Investec), and an increase to £50,000 for the Investec Derby Trial.
Raymond van Niekerk, Investec added, “‘The Derby Festival is Investec’s grandest single spectacle in sponsorship. The event has a magnificent profile in the social arena as well as in the racing and sports industry. Since we started in 2009 the sponsorship has been very rewarding for us as a brand, and it will continue to grow in stature as we work with Epsom to cement the Investec Derby Festival as one of the key events in the British social and sport calendar. The last three years have been very special and we look forward to working with Epsom for at least the next 10 years!’
The new agreement will also see Investec continue its sponsorship of today’s Investec Spring Meeting across the term of the agreement. Epsom’s season opener being six weeks out from the two-day Festival was seen as the perfect platform via which to launch the Road to the Derby. In addition to an extra £20,000 in prize money, today’s first Derby trial race, the Investec Derby Trial, will offer a wild-card entry into the greatest flat race in the world, the Investec Derby.
Bernard Kantor, Investec, commented, “We are delighted to confirm our sponsorship of the Investec Derby Festival for a further ten years. The longevity of our relationship allows us to fully develop the potential of the partnership, providing us with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with a world class sporting event that shares our core brand values; energy, passion and outstanding talent. We are thrilled that this year’s event marks the beginning of Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Weekend Celebrations, and are honoured to be a part of it.”
Paul Fisher, Group Managing Director of Jockey Club Racecourses, said, "Investec is a fantastic partner to British racing and we are absolutely delighted with their commitment to supporting the Derby for the next 10 years. Their team are expert at activating their rights and this is a real benefit to all parties in this partnership. Last year our sport enjoyed record annual attendances and large increases in TV audiences. This extensive new deal is further reinforcement that British racing is a sport on the up." This year’s Investec Derby Festival takes place on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 June and is destined to be of the most memorable. The 23rd running of the Derby will this year be part of Her Majesty the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, with Investec Derby Day being the first event of the central weekend celebrations.
