Große Woche Iffezheim 2026 (Galopprennwoche)

Highlight of the German Racing Season

The Große Woche Iffezheim — also known as "Iffezheim" for short — is the undisputed highlight of the German racing year. At the Iffezheim Racecourse near Baden-Baden, Germany's most traditional racecourse (founded 1858), the international equestrian elite gathers at the end of August / beginning of September. In 2026, the event will take place over five race days, spread from Saturday, 29 August, to Sunday, 6 September 2026.

Five Race Days — Six Group Races

The programme includes five race days:

• Saturday, 29 August 2026 — Opening
• Sunday, 30 August 2026 — Main Race Day
• Tuesday, 1 September 2026 — "After Work" Race Day (festive evening event)
• Saturday, 5 September 2026 — Main Race Day of the second week
• Sunday, 6 September 2026 — Closing Day

Six Group races and three listed races form the sporting backbone — Group races are the highest category in international horse racing, with participation from horses from Germany, France, Great Britain, Ireland, and beyond.

Iffezheim — Tradition Since 1858

The Iffezheim Racecourse was founded in 1858 by the Internationaler Club Iffezheim on the initiative of Édouard Bénazet — the then lessee of the Baden-Baden casino. Its geographical location on the edge of the Rhine plain, between Baden-Baden, Karlsruhe, and Strasbourg, quickly made Iffezheim a meeting point for the international riding elite and the fashionable society of the 19th century. The tradition continues to this day — the Große Woche is not just a sporting event, but a social highlight with style, elegance, and fashion consciousness.

Supporting Programme — From Kids' Land to Style Challenge

In addition to the sporting programme, the Große Woche offers a packed supporting programme:

• Kinderland (Kids' Land) — play area with bouncy castles, carousels, and children's activities
• Shopping-Zelte (Shopping Tents) — sales exhibitions featuring fashion, jewellery, and lifestyle products
• After-Race-Parties — evening events after the races
• Style Challenge — competition for the best racing outfit (hats, couture clothing) — a tradition reminiscent of the Royal Ascot atmosphere

This mix of top-class sport, festival culture, and fashion spectacle makes Iffezheim one of the most unique equestrian events in Europe.

Iffezheim — Equestrian Village on the Rhine

Iffezheim (Rastatt district, approx. 5,700 inhabitants) is located on the southern Rhine, a few kilometres north of Baden-Baden and west of Rastatt. The racecourse is situated directly on the outskirts of the town. From Baden-Baden or Rastatt train stations, it is about a 15–20 minute bus or taxi ride. Additional shuttle buses will be provided during the Große Woche.