BREAKING: Thurles racecourse saved from immediate closure after Horse Racing Ireland steps in
Historic Tipperary track to continue racing until March 2026
Thurles Racecourse will continue to host meetings until March 2026 following an agreement between Horse Racing Ireland and the Molony family. Operational responsibility for the Tipperary venue will pass to Horse Racing Ireland, allowing the track to stage its 11 scheduled fixtures, beginning on Thursday, October 9.
The announcement comes after Riona Molony confirmed earlier this month that her family was stepping back from running the racecourse.
In her August 1 statement, Riona said: “It has been an honour and a privilege for our family to have run Thurles Racecourse, and I am officially announcing our retirement today. We are very proud of the immense contribution our family has made to racing and we are most grateful to our extended racecourse family, our dedicated staff, generous sponsors, loyal patrons and the wider racing community for all your support.”
She continued: “Horse-racing is part of the fabric of our family, and we have been very fortunate to have made so many great friends within the industry over the years. My family and I look forward to going racing with you again, as spectators.”
Reflecting on the years since her husband’s passing, Riona added: “Since my beloved husband Pierce passed away in 2015, with the help of our four daughters Patricia, Helen, Ann Marie and Kate and our wonderful staff, we’ve managed to keep the show on the road and I know he would be very proud of us for that. The girls all have their own families, careers and lives to live. Ever increasing industry demands and the cost of doing business has also been a major factor.”
Although the racecourse is licensed to operate until December 31, 2025, Riona said her family would not continue racing. “We’re going to enjoy this time together and relax now the decision is made and the news is out before we consider our options.”
The new arrangement with Horse Racing Ireland ensures that fixtures will continue until March 2026, providing time for stakeholders to consider the long-term future of the track.