Eighteen expertly trained Irish horses are preparing to compete in the prestigious Breeders' Cup at Del Mar, highlighting an impressive lineup of equine talent.
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The 2025 Breeders’ Cup, a significant event in the horse racing calendar, will feature a contingent of eighteen Irish-trained horses competing at Del Mar, California. This prestigious gathering is set for Friday and Saturday, where the excitement of the races is expected to peak.
Leading the charge is renowned trainer Aidan O’Brien, who continues to solidify his legacy in flat racing. Recently crowned champion flat trainer in Britain, O’Brien is on the verge of securing his 28th championship title in Ireland. His stable, Ballydoyle, will present a formidable team, including eight entrants across six Grade 1 races.
Key players from Ballydoyle
Among the horses from Ballydoyle, several are eyeing top positions in the betting markets. True Love is set to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint, while Precise will run in the Juvenile Fillies Turf.
Another contender is Gstaad, who is also in the Juvenile Turf race. Gstaad will be joined in this elite competition by stablemates Mission Central and Brussels. As O’Brien aims to extend his impressive tally of 25 Group 1 victories this season, he is inching closer to his own world record of 28 wins, established in 2017.
Recent developments and challenges
Despite the optimism surrounding his stable, the draw for races has not been entirely favorable. Both Precise and Gstaad have seen their odds decrease in the betting markets due to concerns. Notably, Minnie Hauk, who recently finished second in the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, will participate in the Breeders’ Cup Turf instead of the Filly and Mare Turf, with Bedtime Story representing Coolmore in the latter race. Additionally, The Lion In Winter, once highly regarded for his potential in the 2000 Guineas and Epsom Derby, will compete in the Breeders’ Cup Mile.
Family legacy and support
Aidan O’Brien is not the only prominent figure; his sons, Joseph and Donnacha, will also have horses competing at Del Mar. Joseph, a former Breeders’ Cup-winning rider, has entered Queen Of Hawaii in the Juvenile Fillies’ Turf and North Coast in the Juvenile Turf. Donnacha brings three runners to the event: Havana Anna (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint), Balantina (Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf), and Atsila (Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf).
Additionally, renowned jumps trainer Willie Mullins will send his equine star, Ethical Diamond, who triumphed at Royal Ascot and Ebor, to compete in the Breeders’ Cup Turf. The Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint will see entries from County Westmeath-based Adrian Murray, with Arizona Blaze and Bucanero Fuerte carrying the Amo Racing colors. Fellow trainer Jack Davison will have She’s Quality in the same race.
Last-minute adjustments and broadcast details
Adrian Murray’s Valiant Force has been declared for the Breeders’ Cup Sprint, although it currently holds the position of first reserve. The hope remains that at least one competitor withdraws, allowing Murray’s horse a chance to participate. Fans can catch the coverage of the 2025 Breeders’ Cup from Del Mar on Virgin Media Two, starting at 8 pm on Friday, and 8:30 pm on Saturday. For a more in-depth look, extensive coverage will also be available on At The Races/Sky Sports Racing.
The excitement builds as the Irish-trained horses prepare to showcase their talents on an international stage, aiming for glory at the 2025 Breeders’ Cup.
