Monterrico will host the 2026 edition of the Gran Premio Latinoamericano (G1), though this time the race will be contested on the turf course
- Turf Diario
- 5 hours ago
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The announcement was made by OSAF during Friday’s conference, where Raúl Lima Neto was also introduced as the organization’s new President for a two-year term
RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (by a special correspondent)—During the press conference held ahead of the Gran Premio Latinoamericano (G1), Danilo Chávez, President of the Jockey Club del Perú, announced that Monterrico Racecourse will host the 2026 edition of the race, following the endorsement of the other members of the Organización Sudamericana de Fomento al Pura Sangre de Carrera (OSAF).
Only two years after its previous staging, Monterrico was once again chosen unanimously—La Rinconada in Venezuela was said to be the other candidate track.
The announcement came with an important update: the 2026 Latino will be run on turf rather than the traditional dirt surface. The decision was made in response to feedback from regional owners who felt that Monterrico’s deep dirt track created an uneven playing field, discouraging participation, as had happened in 2024.
It will mark the first time in the history of the Latino that a host venue stages the race off its main track.
“Sometimes it’s important to give a little in order to keep growing,” said Danilo Chávez. “Even though we worked hard to present and maintain the dirt track in top condition and fulfill our commitment, we couldn’t attract the best horses in the region for 2024. Now, we’re aiming to change that,” he added.
“I’m thrilled with this decision and confident it will be another success,” he concluded.
The race will be contested over 2000 meters on turf, with a maximum field of 16 starters and a purse of US$300,000, financed through OSAF’s own funds. The date has been set for Sunday, April 26, coinciding with the 80th anniversary celebrations of the Jockey Club del Perú.
It will be the seventh time Monterrico hosts what is often called the Copa América of South American racing, with locals having won each of the previous editions.
OSAF Elects a New President
Just before the press conference began, OSAF announced that Raúl Lima Neto, President of the Jockey Club Brasileiro, has been appointed as President of the Organization through 2027.
“We must continue striving to build an institution that is stronger, more united, and working together to fortify the racing industry across this region,” he said in his first remarks.
