The Epsom Derby on Saturday saw a significant 17% drop in paid attendance compared to 2024, and nearly 60% lower than its 2001 record, with empty spaces on the Hill and fewer double-deckers. This decline is attributed to a yellow weather warning and a broader generational shift away from the event, despite the passion still evident among some attendees. New general manager Jim Allen faces a 'gargantuan task' to revive local interest and attendance.
Passion remains at Derby but empty spaces among Epsom spectators are growing
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The Epsom Derby on Saturday saw a significant 17% drop in paid attendance compared to 2024, and nearly 60% lower than its 2001 record, with empty spaces on the Hill and fewer double-deckers. This decline is attributed to a yellow weather warning and a broader generational shift away from the event, despite the passion still evident among some attendees. New general manager Jim Allen faces a 'gargantuan task' to revive local interest and attendance.
- 1 1987: Author's first trip to Epsom to see Reference Point win.
- 2 2001: Record attendance of 53,177 for Galileo's victory.
- 3 2002-2006: Average attendance of 47,000.
- 4 2007: Last attendance to reach 40,000 (40,694).
- 5 Since Covid: Underlying rate of decline in attendance has accelerated.
- 6 A couple of weeks ago: Leyton Orient sold 30,000 tickets for League One playoff final.
- 7 Saturday: Paid attendance at Epsom was 22,312.
- Significant drop in paid attendance (17% from 2024, nearly 60% from 2001 record)
- Loss of the traditional 'buzz' and atmosphere at the event
- A 'gargantuan task' for the new general manager to turn things around
- The Derby's status as Britain's greatest public sporting event is challenged
What: A significant decline in attendance and atmosphere at the Epsom Derby horse racing event.
When: Saturday (recent Derby), 2024 (previous year's attendance), 2001 (record attendance), 2002 to 2006 (average attendance), 2007 (last 40,000+ crowd), 1987 (author's first trip), since Covid.
Where: Epsom (Derby location), Chester (Lambourn's trial), Roodee (Chester racecourse), Louisville (Kentucky Derby comparison), London (source of attendees).
Why: A yellow weather warning deterred walk-up attendance, but the primary reasons are a generational shift in interest, Londoners losing the habit of attending, and competition from other sporting events.
How: Comparison of attendance figures over several years, observations of the crowd size and atmosphere, and comments from trainer Aidan O'Brien and new general manager Jim Allen.