Gran Premio Merano Alto Adige (Großer Preis von Meran)
Italy's most prestigious steeplechase, in the heart of Merano
About Gran Premio Merano
The Italian temple of steeplechase
The Gran Premio Merano Alto Adige (known in German as Großer Preis von Meran) is Italy's premier steeplechase and ranks among the great classics of European jump racing. It takes place at the Merano Racecourse, in the Maia Bassa district of Merano, in the province of Bolzano, in the Trentino-Alto Adige region. The main event, reserved for thoroughbreds, is run over a challenging 5,000-meter course filled with obstacles, widely considered one of the most technical and spectacular in Europe.
A history spanning nearly a century
The first edition of the Gran Premio dates back to October 26, 1935, the year the Maia racecourse was built. The first winner was Roi de Trèfle, and the massive prize pool—one million lire—earned the race its reputation as the "Million Race." At the same time, the famous Merano Lottery was established, long ranking among the most lucrative in the country. Since then, the race has never stopped growing, becoming the pride of Italian and European horse racing.
A full weekend of elite racing
The event spans two days. Saturday features the Nations Prize, part of the European Crystal Cup circuit, along with other supporting races. Sunday is the main event, with the Gran Premio as the centerpiece alongside a rich program of steeplechase and flat races. Beyond the racing, the public can enjoy fine dining, live music, children's entertainment, and the famous "Lady Fashion" and "Mister Fashion" contests, which celebrate elegance in the stands.
Setting and atmosphere
What makes Merano unique is its setting: the track lies in the heart of the city, surrounded by the peaks that dominate the Merano basin, in a breathtaking natural environment. Every year, the event attracts over ten thousand spectators from more than ten nations, in a festive atmosphere that blends sport, social life, and South Tyrolean food and wine. It is no coincidence that the Gran Premio weekend coincides with the Merano WineFestival Preview, featuring tastings and a champagne bar trackside.
- Main 5,000-meter steeplechase course
- Maia Bassa Racecourse, in the center of Merano
- Uninterrupted tradition since 1935
- European Crystal Cup and Nations Prize
- Merano WineFestival Preview
Gran Premio Merano — edition 2026
87th edition: September 26-27, 2026
The Gran Premio Merano Alto Adige returns the weekend of September 26 and 27, 2026, for its 87th edition. Saturday, September 26, the program features seven races, including the 82nd Nations Prize (Crystal Cup) and the 9th Avelignesi-Haflinger Grand Prix, accompanied by the Merano WineFestival Preview, dining, champagne bars, and live music. Sunday, September 27, is the main day, featuring seven races culminating in the 87th Gran Premio Merano Alto Adige over 5,000 meters of obstacles, as well as shows, entertainment, and the "Lady Fashion" and "Mister Fashion" contests.
The event takes place at the Maia Bassa Racecourse, in the municipality of Merano (South Tyrol). Tickets are available for advance purchase online on the official website.
Programme Gran Premio Merano 2026
Saturday, September 26, 2026
- 7 races, including the 82nd Nations Prize (Crystal Cup) and the 9th Avelignesi-Haflinger Grand Prix
- Merano WineFestival Preview, dining, champagne bars, and live music
- Ponies for children and entertainment
Sunday, September 27, 2026
- 7 races, including the 87th Gran Premio Merano Alto Adige (5,000m steeplechase)
- "Lady Fashion" and "Mister Fashion" contests
- Shows, entertainment, dining, and activities
Highlights Gran Premio Merano 2026
Prices Gran Premio Merano 2026
Practical information — Gran Premio Merano
Getting there
The Merano Racecourse is located at Via delle Palade 140, in the Maia Bassa district. By car, it can be reached in a few minutes from the MeBo expressway (Bolzano-Merano), with ample free parking adjacent to the facility and at the Maia Bassa train station. By train, get off at the Maia Bassa station, a short walk away; bus lines 211 and 212 operate from the center of Merano.
Tickets
Admission is ticketed, with advance sales available online on the official racecourse website and dedicated platforms. Prices start from approximately 18-22 euros for general admission, with higher rates for grandstand and front-row seating.
Tips
We recommend arriving in the late morning to enjoy the food and the Merano WineFestival preview before the races begin. Merano offers a wide selection of hotels and accommodations, perfect for extending your stay to enjoy the thermal baths, walks, and vineyards.
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Where does it take place — Gran Premio Merano
Ippodromo di Merano - Maia Bassa
Via delle Palade 140, 39012 Merano/Meran