Global Jockeys League 2026: Official Format

Overview

The Global Jockeys League (GJL) is an international flat racing series launching in 2026, created to spotlight the world’s top jockeys through a franchise-based competition. Co-founded by former Godolphin CEO John Ferguson and ex-Entain executive Lachlan Fitt, the GJL reimagines horse racing as a modern, athlete-driven global sport.

🔸 League Structure
12 elite jockeys from around the world
Each jockey acts as a team principal
Teams are structured as independent franchises
Jockeys hold equity in their teams and the league
Each team can secure its own sponsorships

🔸 Competition Format
Up to 10 events per year
Each event includes 6 individual races
Jockeys and teams accumulate points across the season

🔸 Prize Pool
Total prize money: USD $15 million
End-of-season individual champion: up to USD $5 million

🔸 Event Locations
Planned races will take place at major global venues including:
United Kingdom (e.g., Ascot, York)
United States
Middle East (e.g., Meydan, Dubai)
Asia (e.g., Japan, Hong Kong)
Final locations are to be confirmed in coordination with racing authorities.

🔸 Season Integration
Events are designed to fit around existing racing calendars
The league complements traditional races without scheduling conflicts

🔸 Vision & Innovation
The Global Jockeys League shifts the spotlight from horses to jockeys — elevating them to global icons, engaging modern audiences, and creating new commercial opportunities for the sport.