Moscow Central Hippodrome

Moscow Central Hippodrome

Constructed in 1834, the Moscow Central Hippodrome is the oldest in Europe and one of the largest in Russia. It operates under the Russian Federal Ministry of Agriculture, with one of its core objectives being the advancement of horse breeding. Owing to its racecourse meeting international standards, almost all significant domestic and international competitions in Russia are held at the Moscow Central Racecourse.

In Russia, the Moscow Central Racecourse is the only hippodrome open year-round. Covering an area of 42 hectares, it can accommodate over 1,200 horses annually and features four sets of tracks with turns—including one sandy track, one hard-surface trotting track with granite gravel, two training tracks, and one dirt track—along with 36 individual training paddocks for trotters, and 15–20 additional separate racing horse training areas in summer. With two to three events per week attracting thousands of spectators, the extensive service operations require the continuous hiring of new staff; currently, the hippodrome employs over 300 permanent workers. Facilities on-site include a veterinary clinic, pharmaceutical station, quarantine area, suburban horse rehabilitation center, machinery repair shop, processing workshops and printing facilities, as well as parking lots. Regardless of weather conditions, every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, over 250 trotters can be seen racing simultaneously on the track.

It is the only venue in Russia to host the All-Russian Grand Prix for harness racing (trotters, thoroughbred riding horses, Arabians), gathering the nation’s finest jockeys and top-tier horses. The hippodrome also stages world-class high-level competitions. Horse racing is a breathtaking spectacle, with a magnetic appeal unmatched by any other sport. The Moscow Central Racecourse has become an indispensable part of life for Russians, and its history of over 170 years is now deeply rooted in the traditions of the Russian nation. On race days, the stands typically host 10,000 to 15,000 spectators, and during major holidays and premier events, they are packed to capacity.

Central Moscow Hippodrome

Must-visit reason: Europe’s oldest hippodrome

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Russia[Russia]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Moscow Autonomous City [Moscow]

City where the attraction is located: Moscow [Moscow]