THE INDIAN DERBY – 2026
A Blue-Riband Clash to Remember
by TURF TRACKER
The Indian turf turns its full spotlight on Sunday, 1st February 2026, when the 84th edition of the Indian Derby (Grade 1) is run at Mahalaxmi. With the Poonawalla family once again lending their patronage, the race has been fittingly re-christened as the THE VILLOO POONAWALLA INDIAN DERBY (Grade 1) — a name that resonates with class, legacy and unwavering support to Indian racing.
This year’s renewal promises to be competitive, compelling and delightfully unpredictable, with a fine mix of proven Classic performers, rapidly improving three-year-olds and one or two intriguing dark horses.
FYNBOS
The Indian Oaks heroine brings impeccable Classic credentials into the Derby. Her stamina is proven beyond doubt, her temperament admirable, and she has consistently risen to the occasion when it matters most. The big question — can she reproduce that Oaks brilliance against the colts over the testing Derby trip? On pedigree, performance and sheer grit, she certainly deserves utmost respect.
BAYCHIMO
Arguably the form horse of the season, Baychimo arrives with an enviable record — six wins from seven starts — and the confidence of a horse who knows how to get his head in front. His recent victory over Zacharias only underlined his class and consistency. If he sees out the mile and a half strongly, Baychimo could well stamp himself as one of the best of his generation.
ZACHARIAS
The Pune Derby winner has had a slightly roller-coaster campaign. His below-par run in the 2000 Guineas raised doubts, but his strong second behind Baychimo last time out showed he is very much back on track. Well balanced, battle-hardened and with proven Classic experience, Zacharias shapes as a dangerous outsider who could peak on the biggest stage.
SOVEREIGN KING
Perhaps the most intriguing contender of the lot. Hailing from the illustrious family of Time And Tide, Sovereign King brings pedigree power into the equation. His ability over shorter trips is established; the Derby distance remains the unanswered question. If he stays the mile and a half — and that is the great “if” — he could add a fascinating twist to the finish.
As always, the 2400 metres at Mahalaxmi will separate the genuine stayers from the merely talented. Pace, positioning, jockey judgement and timing will play decisive roles. This Derby does not appear to have an obvious tearaway leader, which could turn the race into a tactical affair — often a recipe for a thrilling finish.
Adding another layer of excitement is the Derby weekend Jackpot, with a massive ONE CRORE carried forward, widely expected to swell beyond the TWO CRORE mark. Such pools invariably draw wider participation, sharper analysis and bold betting propositions — making the weekend not just prestigious, but pulsating from a wagering perspective as well.
Importantly, the Indian Derby is not a standalone attraction. Every race over the weekend is expected to be fiercely competitive, showcasing the very best of Indian thoroughbred racing — quality fields, top jockeys, leading trainers and an electric atmosphere befitting the sport’s biggest festival.
The Villoo Poonawalla Indian Derby 2026 has all the ingredients of a Classic to savour:
Proven Oaks stamina
Red-hot current form
Derby-winning experience
Blue-blooded pedigree intrigue
On paper and on the track, this is shaping up to be a Derby where reputations will be made, dreams fulfilled — and history written.
For racing enthusiasts, this is one date that simply cannot be missed. 🏇✨
