The 2026 Berkshire Winter Million Racing Festival has been hailed as a resounding success, firmly establishing itself as one of the highlights of the January Jumps calendar. Royal Windsor Racecourse hosted the second edition of the festival on Friday and Sunday, with Ascot Racecourse complementing the programme with a high-quality Saturday fixture, creating a compelling three-day celebration of Jump racing across Berkshire.
Despite challenging weather conditions throughout much of the week, the rain stayed away for all three raceday fixtures, much to the relief of organisers and racegoers alike. The favourable conditions contributed to strong attendances and a vibrant atmosphere, underlining the growing appeal of the festival in just its second year.
Racing at Windsor was of the highest calibre, with prize money in excess of £400,000 on both Friday and Sunday. The quality of the programme was further enhanced on Sunday by the addition of the Class 1 Hampton Novices’ Steeple Chase, transferred from Warwick following its abandonment on 10th January. This late addition strengthened an already impressive card and was warmly received by connections and spectators and only added to the already impressive prize pot.
The scale of participation throughout the Windsor fixtures reflected the festival’s rising profile. Across the two racedays there were a total of 238 entries, resulting in 137 declarations and an excellent eventual turnout of 127 runners, delivering competitive and compelling racing throughout with fields as large as 16.
The undoubted highlight of the action at Royal Windsor came in the feature Fitzdares Fleur de Lys Steeple Chase, where Protektorat produced a thrilling performance to claim victory for the second consecutive year. Although once again leading the race from start finish under Harry Skelton, he didn't quite replicate his 23 length win. The popular chaser was greeted with an electric reception in the Winners’ Enclosure, a moment that perfectly captured the atmosphere and excitement generated by the festival. It was a fabulous moment for the sport as Harry demanded that Protektorat be allowed to get as close to his adoring crowd as possible.
Success at the meeting was shared among some of the sport’s leading names. Ben Jones emerged as the leading jockey across the whole festival, finishing with five winners, while Dan Skelton was crowned leading trainer with four victories all ridden by brother Harry, underlining the strength and consistency of his team throughout the weekend.
With high-class racing, strong fields, impressive prize money and enthusiastic crowds, the 2026 Berkshire Winter Million has taken another significant step forward. The festival has not only delivered on its promise but has also strengthened its position as a major mid-winter destination for Jump racing, leaving anticipation already building for its return next year.
