Bosses at Epsom today announced record prize money for the 2002 Vodafone Derby which will carry a total prize fund of #1.2million.
This is a 20% increase on the current value of #1m and consolidates the race as the richest in Europe.
Sue Ellen, managing director of United Racecourses, the owners of Epsom, said: 'This substantial increase shows our commitment to prize money for Europe`s premier race and significantly we are able to make this increase at the same time as reducing the percentage prize money that will be contributed by owners.'
She added that the three-stage entry for the race would continue with this year`s yearling entry stage closing on December 6th.
