The 2025 BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby was officially launched on Monday at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium, marking the return of the prestigious event to its traditional place in the racing calendar.
Following a one-year date adjustment to facilitate a €5 million redevelopment of the Dublin venue, the Derby will once again take centre stage this August. The stadium’s upgrade has already earned national acclaim, receiving two honours at the 2025 Irish Construction Excellence Awards.
This year’s event, offering a top prize of €125,000, will run over six weeks, culminating in the final on Saturday, 27 September. A full programme of heats begins with the first round on the weekend of 22–23 August. The event will be broadcast live on Virgin Media.
BoyleSports CEO Vlad Kaltenieks and Greyhound Racing Ireland CEO Tim Lucey jointly launched the 2025 renewal, which is expected to draw top-tier competitors and capacity crowds to the upgraded Shelbourne Park.
“BoyleSports is incredibly proud to continue its relationship with one of the biggest and most prestigious events in the sport,” said Kaltenieks. “It’s a highlight of the racing calendar that captures the imagination of greyhound fans across the country and beyond.”
Lucey welcomed the Derby’s return to its regular slot and praised the results of the stadium upgrade: “The decision to shift the date last year allowed for vital enhancements to Shelbourne Park, creating a world-class venue that has now been nationally recognised for excellence in construction and design.”
He also acknowledged the long-standing support from BoyleSports. “Their passionate backing has helped elevate this event to world-class standards and ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of our sport,” Lucey said.
Before the Derby begins, fans can enjoy the final of the BoyleSports Champion Stakes on 5 July, serving as a lead-in to the headline series.
The 2025 Derby will aim to build on the legacy of last year’s winner, Bockos Diamond, as a new cohort of greyhounds seeks to make their mark in Irish racing history.
Key Dates – BoyleSports Irish Greyhound Derby 2025:
Trap Draw (1st Round): Monday, 18 August, 12 PM, Oaks Suite, Shelbourne Park
1st Round Heats: Friday 22 & Saturday 23 August
2nd Round Heats: Friday 29 & Saturday 30 August
3rd Round Heats: Saturday 6 September
Quarter-Finals: Saturday 13 September
Semi-Finals: Saturday 20 September
Final: Saturday 27 September
The 2025 Derby promises to offer an unforgettable celebration of Irish greyhound racing, blending tradition with newly enhanced facilities at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
