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The Hipódromo de la Zarzuela turns Sundays into a unique family outing in Madrid
The Hipódromo de la Zarzuela starts spring with races, tributes and activities for all ages. The venue becomes a meeting point for families and enthusiasts. Madrid thus gains a different, accessible leisure option.
This Sunday, Hipódromo de la Zarzuela opens its spring season with a programme that goes far beyond racing. From early in the morning, the venue is preparing to welcome families, groups of friends and turf enthusiasts looking for a different weekend plan in Madrid.
The gates open at 11:00 and, from midday onwards, the excitement moves to the track with five races scheduled. The Hándicap Opcional will be the highlight of the morning, but the atmosphere is rounded off with options designed for all audiences: from children’s activities to guided visits that allow visitors to discover the inner workings of the racecourse.
The day coincides with International Women’s Day, and Hipódromo de la Zarzuela will take the opportunity to pay tribute to the women who are part of the racing world. Before the second race, in the paddock, the work of female trainers, veterinarians, jockeys, riders and stable staff will be recognised, underlining their role in the development of turf in Spain.
Before the fifth race, the Asociación de Hipódromos de España will hold an institutional ceremony to highlight three historic milestones of the 2025 season: La Yeguada Rocío’s 50 victories, trainer Guillermo Arizkorreta’s national record of 105 wins, and jockey Václav Janáček’s 96 victories. President Ernesto Gasco will present the trophies to those involved.
The plan is completed with food options, rest areas and services intended to make the visit easier: free parking and free buses from different points in the city. Thus, Hipódromo de la Zarzuela is consolidating itself as an outdoor leisure alternative, where sport and entertainment mingle in a natural setting just minutes from the centre.
Hipódromo de la Zarzuela is one of those places which, although many people from Madrid know of it by reputation, surprises visitors when they go there. Its Rationalist architecture and gardens make it a distinctive space, away from the city’s usual bustle. Every season, the venue manages to bring together very different types of people: from families looking for peaceful plans to turf enthusiasts who follow every race in detail. Madrid is already beginning to move in that direction, recovering traditions and adding new ways to enjoy Sunday.