On the basis of DNA microsatellite polymorphism at 26 loci tested within the European Concerted Action AIRE 2066 for the Analysis of Genetic Diversity to Preserve Future Breeding Options, a determination was made of the genetic structure of 147 Polish Red (PR) cattle, included in the National Rare Livestock Breeds Preservation Programme (NRLBPP). The examined PR cattle population was characterized by a high genetic variation (a total of 193 alleles identified, Ho = 0.695, He = 0.703,mean number of alleles per locus = 7.4). An analysis of the genetic distance (Dps), including information on the presence (or absence) in the genome of alleles specific for the breed, confirmed that 80% of PR animals included in the NRLBPP comprised a separate genetic group, differing from populations of other European cattle breeds. The results show the uniqueness of the gene pool of PR cattle included in the NRLBPP. Despite the crossing with other breeds widely applied in the past, the present PR material does, to a considerable degree, remain genetically distinct. Thus, it is anticipated that basing on the existing preserved population the reconstruction of a pure, or almost pure PR cattle can be achieved.