Ladbrokes is the new sponsor of Kempton Park’s flagship meeting, The King George VI Christmas Festival, in a five-year partnership announced today by Jockey Club Racecourses.

The Ladbrokes King George VI Chase is one of the highest esteemed Steeplechases in the British racing calendar and will forever be linked to great chasers including Arkle, Desert Orchid and Kauto Star. Paul Nicholls has an exceptional record in the two day meeting’s feature race, training 10 winners in the past 22 years.

Taking place annually on 26th and 27th December, the two day meeting has become an iconic part of Christmas celebrations for many racing fans, offering a truly festive atmosphere throughout the course.

Steve Parlett, General Manager of Kempton Park Racecourse, said: “We are delighted to welcome Ladbrokes as the new partner of our most prestigious race meeting. Ladbrokes are a longstanding supporter of Jockey Club Racecourses and we are excited to work together to further enhance our racegoers’ experience.

“The Ladbrokes King George VI Chase has an exceptional roll of honour, including four time winner Desert Orchid, and five time winner Kauto Star. With the likes of jumping world record holder Altior looking to take the step up in distance for this year’s renewal it promises to deliver another phenomenal contest.

“The top quality racing extends well beyond the feature race across the two days of the festival including the Grade 2 Wayward Lad Novice’s Steeple Chase and the Desert Orchid Stakes whose recent notable winners include Sire de Grugy, Sprinter Sacre and Special Tiara.

“We very much look forward to welcoming racegoers in partnership with Ladbrokes to enjoy this special meeting.”

Simon Clare, Ladbrokes Coral PR Director, said:“Ladbrokes has a long and proud history of sponsoring top class horse racing in this country, and we are absolutely thrilled to be embarking on this exciting new sponsorship of the King George VI Chase and the two day Christmas Festival at Kempton Park.

“There are few races in the calendar that can boast the heritage and prestige of the Ladbrokes King George VI Chase, and it is always one of the top ten betting races in the year, making it a perfect fit for Ladbrokes.

“Boxing Day and the days following Christmas is one of the busiest betting periods in the year, so this sponsorship has broader strategic benefits too at such an important time for the Ladbrokes business.”

Steve Parlett added: “I would like to take this opportunity to offer our sincere thanks to 32Red for the support they have given Kempton Park’s flagship fixture over the past three years. We look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.”