Zuckerhut leads the big derby in Hamburg with 650,000 euros in prize money!

Zuckerhut leads the big derby in Hamburg with 650,000 euros in prize money!

This Sunday, July 6, 2025, the equestrian world is looking forward to Hamburg-Horn, where the eagerly awaited IDEE 156th German Derby starts at 3:43 p.m. At this highlight of the horse racing season, spectators can expect not only exciting races, but also impressive prize money of 650,000 euros, making it the most valuable group race in Germany. The derby has been held since 1869 and attracts the best three-year-old thoroughbred horses year after year. The distance is, as usual, 2400 meters, and 17 horses are starting today after Juwelier can no longer take part due to cancellation. Gallop Online reports that the event is part of the prestigious World Pool organized by the Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The race's favorite, Sugar Loaf, has a 4.0:1 eventual odds according to current betting odds and will be ridden by jockey Cristian Demuro. But there are other contenders to keep an eye on, including Convergent (4.9:1), Lady Charlotte (9.9:1) and Hochkönig (10.0:1). These odds promise an exciting race and numerous opportunities for viewers to bet on their favorites.

Supporting program and betting options

The Derby program is rounded off with a total of 12 races, and there are exciting other highlights to experience. Reference is often made to the two group races: the Best Place Immobilien Hamburg Mare Prize and the Japan Racing Association Trophy, both with prize money of 55,000 euros. New this year is The President of the United Arab Emirates Cup for Arabian thoroughbreds, which is worth an impressive 250,000 euros.

For betting enthusiasts, the organizers also offer a V4 bet with a guaranteed 10,000 euros for four correct winners. The totalizator deductions here are lower than at many other German racing days, which ensures attractive odds. Despite the high betting turnover, which is expected to be in the millions, the Hamburg Racing Club does not have its own betting pools for the races. Horseweb highlights that the first hundreds of bets have already generated significant turnover, even higher than the derby at the same time in previous years.

Tradition and records

The long tradition of the German derby cannot be overlooked. The first race was held on July 11, 1869, and the German Derby now counts so many different winners, including numerous prominent riders and trainers. Only three-year-old stallions and mares are allowed to take part, which is why the competition is particularly unique. A true work of art on the racetrack, drawing on over 150 years of development and ups and downs in horse breeding and racing. Wikipedia tells of the many records set over the years, including Belenus' sensational time in 1999.

The excitement is palpable and the anticipation of what is on offer today at the Hamburg-Horn racecourse is increasing. It remains to be seen whether Sugarloaf can live up to their role as favorites or whether surprises will be revealed afterwards. One thing is certain: Derby day in Hamburg is a real highlight in the horse racing calendar and promises thrills for everyone involved.