Howden has expanded its involvement with the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), becoming the naming rights partner for Victoria Derby Day under a new three-year agreement.
The event, now officially titled Howden Victoria Derby Day, will see the global insurance broker elevated to Major Partner status – making Howden only the fourth exclusive naming rights partner in the history of the event.
The agreement cements Howden’s presence at one of Australia’s most significant race days, which serves as the traditional opener for Cup Week.
The 172nd running of the $2 million Group 1 Howden Victoria Derby (2500m) is scheduled for Nov. 1, continuing the event’s established format and prominence within the racing calendar.
Howden’s relationship with the VRC began in 2023, when the company was appointed Official Insurance Partner and supported the Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour.
The expanded partnership builds on Howden’s experience in providing specialist insurance solutions to a range of stakeholders in the racing industry, including associations, racecourses, trainers, stud farms, riding schools, and horse owners.
VRC CEO Kylie Rogers said the partnership is based on shared values and practical collaboration.
“Howden has been an important member of the VRC family since 2023, and we’re extremely proud to see a business that so closely shares our values become a Major Partner of the club,” she said.
She added that Howden’s long-standing involvement in the sector underpins the partnership’s foundation.
Howden Pacific CEO Matt Bacon commented on the new phase of the relationship, stating: “We are incredibly proud to elevate our partnership with the VRC to become a Major Partner in 2025.”
Bacon described the VRC as a dynamic organisation and noted the alignment with Howden’s focus on growth and solutions in insurance broking.
Howden’s activity in the equine sector extends beyond Australia. The company recently renewed its official partnership with Ascot Racecourse in the UK, extending the collaboration until 2030.
At Ascot, Howden provides specialist bloodstock and equine insurance and sponsors events such as the Howden Christmas Racing Weekend.
The company also maintains sponsorships with the Bahrain Turf Series and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, and has acted as Principal Partner for the British and Irish Lions rugby team during their Australian tour.
