Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi-Million 2026: Western India’s Finest Juveniles Set for Sunday Showdown

The 37th running of the Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi-Million (PBMM) — widely regarded as the biggest attraction on the Indian racing calendar after the Indian Derby — will illuminate the historic Mahalaxmi Racecourse on Sunday, February 22.

The Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) has assembled a competitive eight-race evening card, with proceedings commencing at 4 p.m. In a bid to broaden public participation, ladies will enjoy free entry, while Members’ and First Enclosure racegoers can engage in a grand PBMM lucky draw by predicting the first four finishers in the feature. The incentive list is eye-catching, with a Toyota Glanza headlining prizes that also include a Honda Activa scooter, LED television and a laptop.

Affectionately dubbed the “Juvenile Derby,” the PBMM stands as the definitive championship for India’s elite three-year-olds. This year’s renewal carries total stakes of ₹1.5 crore, including a handsome winner’s purse of ₹90 lakh, reaffirming its stature as the nation’s premier juvenile contest.

However, the 2026 edition bears an unusual competitive contour. Following the recent glanders outbreak at southern racing centres, the race has been restricted to Western India-trained contenders, with outstation participation temporarily curtailed — a factor that adds both regional pride and tactical intrigue to the line-up.

A field of nine promising juveniles will vie for supremacy. Buckingham, from the yard of Karthik Ganapathy, heads the competition on the strength of two striking victories and sets the benchmark for the division. Blue Jet, representing Deepesh Narredu, is expected to finish strongly and pose the principal threat to the favourite. Invictor, trained by Altamash and an impressive last-start winner, commands respect, while Enrich from M. Narredu’s stable has the credentials to secure a podium finish.

With quality contenders, substantial stakes, and the added theatre of a restricted regional clash, the 37th Poonawalla Breeders’ Multi-Million promises to deliver a compelling juvenile championship under the Mahalaxmi lights — a fitting highlight of the Mumbai racing season.