The Sport of Kings (play)

The Sport of Kings is a three-act comedy play written by Ian Hay, with additional material by Stephen King-Hall. It premiered in London's West End at St. James's Theatre on September 15, 1924.

The play centers on the Earl of Middlewick, a peer obsessed with horse racing and breeding thoroughbreds. His obsession leads to humorous complications in his personal and familial life, particularly concerning his daughter’s romantic prospects. The plot typically involves mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and the Earl's unwavering dedication to the "sport of kings" (horse racing). The play relies on witty dialogue and farcical situations to create its comedic effect.

The Sport of Kings was a popular success upon its initial release and has been revived numerous times, both professionally and by amateur theatre groups. Its lighthearted nature and focus on upper-class society themes made it a well-regarded piece of British theatre during the interwar period. Productions often highlight the comedic clash between the Earl's sporting passion and the more serious aspects of love and family.