In a historic moment for the equestrian world, the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities and Longines announced on Tuesday that City of Troy and Laurel River have jointly claimed the title of the 2024 world’s best racehorse. Additionally, the Group 1 Juddmonte International Stakes has been crowned as the year's top horse race. This dual recognition took place during a prestigious ceremony held in London, marking the first tie for the best racehorse accolade since 2019.

The achievements of both horses are nothing short of remarkable. City of Troy secured its position through an impressive victory in the Juddmonte International Stakes, where it led from start to finish. The horse also triumphed in two other significant events: the Epsom Derby and Coral-Eclipse, both Grade 1 races in 2024. On the other hand, Laurel River's dominance was evident when it won the Dubai World Cup by a commanding margin of 8 1/2 lengths. Another notable win for Laurel River came in the Burj Nahaar, a Grade 3 event.

Both City of Troy and Laurel River were bred in the United States, showcasing the strength of American breeding programs. Other U.S.-bred horses that made it into the top 10 include Fierceness and Sierra Leone, who tied for fifth place. The success of these equine athletes highlights the global competitiveness of American-bred horses in international racing.

The Juddmonte International Stakes, hosted at York Racecourse, has now received this prestigious award for the second time, following its recognition in 2020. The selection process for the world’s best horse race is rigorous, involving evaluations by a panel of international handicappers. The ratings of the top four finishers in each Group or Grade 1 race serve as the foundation for determining the winner.

This year's awards underscore the exceptional performances of both horses and races, reflecting the high standards and competitive nature of the sport. The joint victory of City of Troy and Laurel River sets a new benchmark for future contenders, while the acclaim for the Juddmonte International Stakes cements its status as one of the most prestigious events in global horseracing.