The appointment of Queensberry marks a significant moment for the upcoming Betfred Derby Festival in 2026, as they have been chosen to enhance fan experiences and overall event activations at this esteemed race.
After a rigorous selection process, the Jockey Club has entrusted the newly established Queensberry Event Management (QEM) division with this important task. Their primary focus will be on revitalizing the well-known area referred to as ‘The Hill’ at Epsom Downs Racecourse during the much-anticipated event scheduled for June 5 and 6, 2026. This extensive brief encompasses various aspects including experiential marketing, public relations, event execution, and paid social media strategies.
Leading this ambitious initiative is Frank Warren, a renowned boxing promoter inducted into the Hall of Fame, who aims to introduce ‘DerbyFest’. The QEM team, which is part of Queensberry, will be led by Chief Commercial Officer Louisa Clark, who previously worked at TNT Sports, along with Paddy Hobbs, the Director of Sports PR and Marketing at Catchweight, and Event Project Manager Louis Fentener. This new division has been specifically established to ensure seamless event delivery for rights holders and sporting organizations.
Frank Warren, the Founder and Chairman of Queensberry, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Today is a landmark occasion for Queensberry. Collaborating with one of the most esteemed sporting events in Britain — The Betfred Derby Festival — on such a significant occasion is truly exhilarating. Epsom Downs Racecourse, one of the oldest in the world, is steeped in history, making our involvement even more thrilling.
"This festival is deeply rooted in my family's history; for over 70 years, my family and I have been connected to the racecourse. To now be entrusted with promoting an iconic venue like The Hill is a remarkable privilege. We are not just here to participate; we are determined to excel and make a lasting impression."
Jim Allen, General Manager of Epsom Downs Racecourse, shared his excitement about the collaboration, saying, "We are absolutely thrilled to partner with Frank and the Queensberry team to breathe new life into The Hill at Epsom Downs and to launch DerbyFest. The Betfred Derby is a revered British institution recognized worldwide, and with Queensberry’s expertise in sports and events promotion, we are confident in their ability to connect with local communities, sports enthusiasts, and potential racegoers. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to create an unforgettable experience next June."
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