Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Chantilly's racetrack, inaugurated in 1834, is one of the oldest racing fields in France. Property of the Institut de France and managed by France Galop, it extends over 65 hectares along the forest of Chantilly, near the castle. It hosts prestigious dish races such as the Prix du Jockey Club (since 1836) and the Prix de Diane (since 1843), with 42 days of annual races (2018 figures). Its tracks, including the large 2,400-metre track with a selective final climb, and its Anglo-Norman style stands, make it a major site of French equestrian heritage.

The stands, among the oldest preserved in France, were built in several phases. The first, provisional (1835), were replaced in 1847 by two fora designed by Jean-Louis Victor Grisart for the Duke of Aumale. In 1881, the architect Honoré Daumet (also in charge of Chantilly's castle) rebuilt the large public gallery and the forum of the committee (former court of the prince). The weighing building, a work by Charles Girault (student of Daumet), was added in 1891, while the committee's rostrum was rebuilt in 1911 by Eugene Saint-Ange. These elements have been classified as Historical Monuments since 1995.

In the 20th century, the racetrack underwent major renovations. In 1994, threatened with closure for financial reasons, he was saved by the creation of the GIP Initiative for a Sustainable Development of Chantilly (IDC), bringing together local actors and the Aga Khan Development Network. Between 1998 and 2004, €24 million was invested, including the renovation of the grand forum (opened in 2004) and the development of the surrounding areas. In 2011, a fibrous sand track (1,900 m) was added for 4.4 million euros, allowing all year round races. Lippodrome also hosts international horse racing competitions (CSI 5*) and cultural events.

Lippodrome is also known for hosting the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in 2016 and 2017, due to work in Longchamp. Its tracks are also used to train 800 horses (2,000 gallops annually) and house lounges and a kite spot. Managed by France Galop for racing and by the Fondation pour la sauté du domaine de Chantilly for commercial spaces, it combines historical heritage and modernity.

The flagship races include Groups 1 such as the Jockey Club Prize (2,100 m, June) and Diane's Prize (2,100 m, June), as well as Groups 2 and 3 throughout the season (March to November for grass, all year long on fibrous sand). The site is also a place of equestrian events like the Jumping de Chantilly (Grand National in April, CSI 5* in July), integrated into the Global Champions Tour since 2010.

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