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Saudi Cup Stakes Previews

The Stage is Set for Saudi Cup Day: A Preview of the Six Graded Stakes Races

(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) – The world’s finest thoroughbreds and jockeys are ready to take center stage at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh for the highly anticipated Saudi Cup Day. With over $35 million in prize money on offer, the excitement is palpable as horses from across the globe vie for glory in six thrilling graded stakes races.

1. The $1.5 million Neom Turf Cup (G2): Kicking off the festivities is the Neom Turf Cup, a 2,100-meter turf race for horses four years old and upwards. The field features a mix of established stars and rising contenders, making it a wide-open contest. One horse to watch is Bathrat Leon, last year’s winner who returns in top form. He’ll face stiff competition from the likes of Yibir, who boasts a Group 1 victory at Ascot, and the Japanese raider Shahryar, a multiple Group winner in his homeland.

2. The $1.5 million Riyadh Dirt Sprint (G3): The spotlight then shifts to the dirt track for the Riyadh Dirt Sprint, a 1,200-meter dash for three-year-olds and upwards. American trainer Steve Asmussen will be hoping for continued success with Skelly, who enters the race on a seven-race winning streak. However, he’ll need to overcome a wide draw and challenges from the likes of Remake from Japan and Tuz from Dubai.

3. The $2 million 1351 Turf Sprint (G2): Returning to the turf course is the 1351 Turf Sprint, a 1,351-meter test for four-year-olds and upwards. This race is often a showcase for international speed, and this year’s edition promises no different. Bathrat Leon attempts to double up after his Neom Turf Cup victory, while Mysterious Night brings top form from Dubai, and the filly Matilda Picotte looks to upset the established order.

4. The $1.5 million Saudi Derby (G3): The race for three-year-olds heats up in the Saudi Derby, a 1,600-meter dirt contest. This race often serves as a springboard for future stars, and all eyes will be on Forever Young from Japan, who dominated the Zen-Nippon Nisai Yushun in December. He’ll be challenged by Book’em Danno from the United States, who enters in winning form.

5. The $2 million Neom Turf Cup (G1): The penultimate race of the day is the prestigious Neom Turf Cup, a 1,800-meter turf race for Purebred Arabians. This race has seen some of the most dominant Arabian performers in recent years, and this year’s edition promises another exciting chapter. Al Muammar returns to defend his crown, but faces stiff competition from the likes of Musharraf and Ebraz.

6. The $20 million Saudi Cup (G1): The main event, the $20 million Saudi Cup, is a 1,800-meter dirt race open to all ages. This race attracts the crème de la crème of international racing, and this year’s edition is no exception. White Abarrio, last year’s Breeders’ Cup Classic winner, is the narrow favorite, but faces a strong challenge from Derma Sotogake, who seeks revenge after their Breeders’ Cup meeting. Other contenders include Lemon Pop from Japan and National Treasure from the United States.

With a diverse range of races and top-class horses competing, Saudi Cup Day promises to be a thrilling spectacle for racing fans worldwide. The anticipation is high, and the stage is set for an unforgettable day of competition and drama.