The 2025 Season Comes to an End – What to Expect in 2026?
11/2/2025
Season 2025 is drawing to a close. We have successfully completed three auction parts, with two more scheduled in the coming weeks. Our ongoing auction at PIPA has already attracted strong interest.
Overall, we are satisfied with the results so far. Buyers clearly recognized the added value of our three demanding final races and the unique pigeon selection that distinguishes AviRings Derby Pro.
It’s hard to believe that not even nine months ago, we received the first pigeons for this year’s edition. The year passed incredibly fast, filled with challenges, progress, and achievements. When we launched our new program with nine races, including three above 500 km, we didn’t know exactly what to expect. Our main goal, however, remained clear:
To bring to the surface only the very best pigeons.
After all, only truly exceptional pigeons can fly more than 1,500 km in three weeks and remain at the top of the results list.
In 2025, we also introduced new competition formats: the “Jersey Cup” team championship, the “Fancier of the Race” award — both adding fresh dynamics and excitement to the season. Lucky Looser - 99th place award was added as well.
Key Statistics
- Total pigeons entered: 2,450
- Dutch pigeons: more than 800 (our traditional main base)
- Countries represented: 28 (including, for the first time, participants from the USA)
- Losses in quarantine: only 4%
- Training program: 10 tosses from 2 km up to 80 km
- Arrival rates (first three races): 97%, 97%, and 94% (195 km)
The turning point came with Race 4, a very challenging event with a 68% arrival rate. The cause remains somewhat uncertain, but it marked a clear shift in race dynamics. Following that, the races stabilized, though none were easy.
Final Races
- 1st Final: 1,034 pigeons sent – 62% arrival
- 2nd Final: Route adjusted 45° south to avoid cloudy conditions – 53% arrival
- 3rd Final: 410 pigeons sent – strong headwind, first pigeon speed 1,162 m/min – 72% arrival
Why the 3×500 km Concept Matters
Opting for three 500+ km finals was bold and came with multiple risks — yet it proved to be the right choice.
- Young pigeons: We race with birds only 4–8 months old — a unique concept worldwide that deserves recognition.
- Bird type and readiness: Not every pigeon, even from top lines, can handle such distances. Owners are often unaware of these natural limitations.
- Autumn weather: Late September and early October are unpredictable. Good weather over several days requires luck and precision timing.
Despite these challenges, the 3×500 format successfully highlighted the strongest, most resilient pigeons.
Technical and Communication Innovations
In 2025, AviRings Derby Pro introduced several new features aimed at transparency and participant engagement, one of the main ones are:
- “Arriving Pigeon” Videos: Short clips showing each bird’s return, allowing participants to see the condition and behavior of their pigeons immediately upon arrival.
- Pigeons Race Overview Table: For easier tracking, comparison, and even pedigree preparation for auctions, we’ve created a personalized overview table for each fancier.
- Weekly Participant Reports: Detailed updates after each race with insights about individual pigeons’ performances, especially useful for fanciers with larger teams.
These innovations were very well received and will continue to be part of our program.
Reflections and Conclusions for 2026
Based on analysis and participant feedback, we draw the following main conclusions:
- 3×500 km remains a challenging but fair and meaningful format, revealing the true quality of pigeons.
- Older young pigeons perform better. For next season, we will collect pigeons only until the beginning of May.
- Team competition (Jersey Cup) turned out to be the hardest challenge. Many teams struggled to keep two of five pigeons until the end of the season. We plan to revise the format to make it more balanced and increase its prize value.
- Ace pigeon calculation (FCI method) received mixed feedback. We are considering a new scoring system, potentially based on average speed or total flight time, to better reflect consistency.
Lessons Learned
- Race 4 analysis: deeper investigation into conditions and timing is needed.
- Weather contingency: develop stronger release strategies and flexible route planning.
- Owner awareness: provide clearer education on preparing young pigeons for long-distance races.
- Competition structure: improve balance and fairness across individual and team formats.
Looking Ahead – Season 2026
Our focus for 2026 will be on stability, fairness, and engagement. Key priorities include:
- Maintaining the 3×500 km signature format.
- Closing pigeon collection at the beginning of May.
- Refining team competition rules to give all participants realistic chances.
- Testing and adopting a new Ace Pigeon calculation method.
- Expanding video and reporting features.
- Enhancing weather planning protocols.
- Increasing international participation, especially from North America, Turkey, Poland and new regions.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season demanded courage and patience — from both the organizers and the fanciers. Racing very young pigeons across nine demanding events, including three over 500 km, was ambitious. Yet, the results confirmed the strength of our concept and the quality of participating fanciers and birds.
AviRings Derby Pro continues to prove that true performance comes from dedication, innovation, and transparency. We look forward to building an even stronger and fairer competition in Season 2026.
Welcome to join us in Season 2026.