York Racecourse is delighted that the newest raceday on the Knavesmire will contain pattern quality action, as the Group Three Al Basti Equiworld Dubai, Criterion Stakes has been confirmed as the feature race of Saturday 28 June.

Forming the centrepiece of a Premier Raceday shown on ITV, the new race for York will have a £100,000 purse meaning that forty-two races will have at least a six-figure reward for connections, over the now eighteen-day season.

Staged over seven furlongs, it will offer a development pathway to latest Group One at York, the Sky Bet City of York Stakes on the final day of the Ebor Festival.

To cement this pathway, the Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai Criterion will offer a ‘Run For Free’ connection to the Sky Bet City of York Stakes, with connections of the winning horse in June refunded their August entry fees in full, once they have competed in the Group One contest.

After the racing action there will be a concert from Olly Murs.

With reference to the latest Group Three on the Knavesmire, William Derby, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course said, “The Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai Criterion Stakes becomes the fourth to benefit from the support of Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai as well as the thirtieth Pattern race of our season. Staged over the same seven furlongs as our new Group One, it offers an ideal opportunity for horses to test themselves over course and distance, with an eye to returning in August. The offer of a refund on August entry fees will hopefully be a further temptation to step up in class.”

Long standing York supporter, Malih Al Basti, the Owner and Founder of Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai said, “We congratulate William Derby and the York Racecourse Board on securing this prestigious and valuable fixture which we are delighted to add to our portfolio of horseracing sponsorships. Throughout our long-standing partnership, York have proved to be enthusiastic and effective promoters of our brand and we look forward to working closely with them to deliver what promises to be a popular and exciting addition to the summer racing calendar for owners, trainers and racegoers.”