The Virginia Derby is set to become a major player on the road to the Kentucky Derby.

Starting in 2025, Colonial Downs Racetrack will host the Virginia Derby as a “win and you’re in” qualifying race, adding serious stakes to a prestigious event. The news was announced during the Festival of Racing by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, alongside key state officials and Churchill Downs representatives.

Traditionally a highlight of Colonial Downs’ summer schedule, the Virginia Derby is set to undergo a transformation. The race will move from turf to dirt and will take place on March 15, 2025, kicking off a new four-day spring meet. The big prize? A guaranteed spot in the 151st Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

“The future for thoroughbred racing in Virginia has never been brighter and this opportunity will allow us to shine on horse racing’s biggest stage,” Youngkin said.

The announcement has the Virginia racing community buzzing with anticipation. “It is exciting that the Road to the Kentucky Derby will now run through Virginia. Churchill Downs has elevated the stature and economic impact of thoroughbred racing in the Commonwealth while creating jobs, generating significant tax revenue in communities around the state,” said Speaker of the House Don Scott.

The impact goes beyond just the race itself. Secretary of Agriculture Matthew Lohr highlighted how the added race days at Colonial Downs are set to boost the state’s agricultural and equine industries.

“Besides adding prestigious and lucrative races for horsemen, more race days drives significant economic impact throughout Virginia’s entire agricultural sector leading to a healthy breeding industry, stronger equine infrastructure and more employment opportunities across the Commonwealth,” Lohr said.

The spring meet is contingent on approval from the Virginia Racing Commission.