Irish Derby sponsorship extended ahead of Saturday's 150th running at the Curragh

The Irish Derby has received a significant boost ahead of its 150th running on Saturday evening with news Dubai Duty Free will extend its sponsorship for a further two years.

The airport retailer has been the title sponsor of Ireland's premier Classic since 2008 and the new agreement will see prize-money for next year's renewal increase to 1.5million euros.

Dubai Duty Free has the option to continue its sponsorship for a further three years up to 2020, which would result in a total prize fund of 7.5million over the term of the sponsorship.

Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman of Dubai Duty Free said: "We have been working together with the Curragh Racecourse to create a festival that incorporates premier racing, fashion, food and fun. Over the years we have added more ancillary activities both on and off the track.

"We run a golf classic and charity ball at The K Club in the earlier part of the week and on Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day we sponsor the Best Dressed Lady. This year we also worked with the local communities in Newbridge and Kildare Town to have even more activities happening off the track in a bid to create a real sense of festival in the surrounding areas.

"We are delighted to be the title sponsor of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby. Sport and sports sponsorship is very much in line with our marketing strategy and we see this event as one of our key sponsorships."

Curragh general manager Paul Hensey said: "The Curragh has enjoyed a very positive association with Dubai Duty Free since 2003, when the company first sponsored the Anglesey Stakes before taking over the title sponsorship of the Irish Derby in 2008.

"We are delighted to have secured the sponsorship of our flagship race and that our partnership with Dubai Duty Free will continue."