The Saudi Cup, renowned as the world's most lucrative horse race with a staggering $20 million prize pool, is set to captivate audiences in its sixth year. This premier event will unfold at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 22, 2025. The two-day racing extravaganza begins on February 21st with the International Jockeys Challenge, culminating in a series of high-profile races that highlight both Arabian and international thoroughbreds. The main attraction, a grueling 1800-meter dirt track contest, promises intense competition among horses from diverse global origins vying for glory.
The field for the Saudi Cup 2025 exemplifies the event's international allure, featuring an array of top-tier competitors. Among them is Al Musmak, an Irish-bred contender piloted by Muhammad Aldaham. Al Musmak boasts recent victories in allowance races and Grade 3 stakes. Another notable entry is Defunded, guided by Antonio Fresu, who has shown promise despite mixed results in previous races. El Kodigo, under Gustavo Calvente, brings South American prestige with multiple Grade 1 wins to its record. Facteur Cheval, trained by Jerome Reynier, adds European flair with impressive placings in prestigious races like the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.
Japanese entries such as Forever Young and Ramjet bring their own brand of speed and endurance. Forever Young, ridden by Ryusei Sakai, has excelled in domestic G1 events and international classics. Meanwhile, Ramjet, under Kosei Miura, has demonstrated resilience with consistent performances in high-stakes competitions. From the United States comes Rattle N Roll, steered by Joel Rosario, fresh off Grade 2 and Grade 3 triumphs. Romantic Warrior, an Irish import trained by Danny Shum, arrives with a string of Grade 1 victories, including the Longines Hong Kong Cup. The lineup also includes Intense for Me, Ushba Tesoro, Wait to Excel, Walk Of Stars, Wilson Tesoro, Wootton’sun, Scotland Yard, each bringing unique strengths and histories to the race.
The excitement extends beyond the Saudi Cup itself. The Obaiya Arabian Classic and the Longines Red Sea Turf Handicap offer additional showcases for purebred Arabians and turf specialists, respectively. These complementary races underscore the diversity and richness of equestrian traditions converging in Riyadh. HRH Prince Bandar bin Khaled Alfaisal, Chairman of the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, expressed enthusiasm about the caliber of participants and the ongoing enhancements to the event, which now features two new international Group 2 races. As preparations reach their climax, all eyes are on Riyadh for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of elite horse racing.