Thoroughbred horse racing in Italy has a long and storied history. The first recorded race in Italy took place in 1642, and the first thoroughbred race was held in 1816. The Italian thoroughbred racing industry has produced some of the world's most successful horses, including Falbrav, who won the Gran Premio di Milano in Italy as well as Group 1 races in Japan, France, the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.
There are currently 11 racetracks in Italy that offer thoroughbred racing, including Capannelle Racecourse in Rome, Ippodromo San Siro in Milan, and Ippodromo della Favorita in Palermo. The racing season in Italy runs from April to September, and the most prestigious races are the Gran Premio di Milano, the Gran Premio di Roma, and the Premio Presidente della Repubblica.
Thoroughbred horse racing is a popular spectator sport in Italy, and there are often large crowds at the racetracks. The races are also televised, and there is a thriving betting industry.
Here are some of the most important thoroughbred horse races in Italy:
- Gran Premio di Milano: This is the most prestigious thoroughbred race in Italy, and it is held at Capannelle Racecourse in Rome. The race is run over 2,000 meters, and it is open to horses aged three and older.
- Gran Premio di Roma: This is the second most prestigious thoroughbred race in Italy, and it is held at Ippodromo San Siro in Milan. The race is run over 2,400 meters, and it is open to horses aged three and older.
- Premio Presidente della Repubblica: This is the third most prestigious thoroughbred race in Italy, and it is held at Ippodromo della Favorita in Palermo. The race is run over 2,100 meters, and it is open to horses aged three and older.
If you are interested in learning more about thoroughbred horse racing in Italy, there are many resources available online and in libraries. You can also contact the Italian Trotting and Horseracing Federation for more information.