Delaware Park’s 2025 racing schedule will see significant changes due to the Delaware Handicap being downgraded from a Grade 2 to a Grade 3 race. The decision was made by the American Graded Stakes Committee, causing track officials to reconsider the timing and format of the race. The DelCap, traditionally held in early July, will now take place on Sunday, September 28, and will be run at a distance of 1 1/8 miles instead of the previous 1 1/4 miles.
In addition to the changes to the Delaware Handicap, the Delaware Oaks will now be part of a showcase card on Saturday, October 14, along with the new $200,000 Delaware Derby for 3-year-old colts. This move creates an opportunity for horses that don’t advance in the Triple Crown or late-bloomers looking to boost their performance in the second half of the year. Delaware Park is also introducing a new series for older female sprinters, with three races at 6 furlongs each.
Overall, Delaware Park’s 2025 racing season will feature 18 stakes races worth $2,925,000 run on 8 separate days. The season will begin on Wednesday, May 14, and will include racing on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with 10 Friday cards and two special Sunday events in September. Additionally, there will be four more stakes races on Sunday, September 14, restricted to Delaware Bred or Certified horses.
