Saudi Cup 2025: Contenders Analysis

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Saudi Cup 2025 Contenders

Japan, Hong Kong, and Dubai Dominate as U.S. Stars Withdraw

The $20 million Saudi Cup (G1), the world’s richest race, will take place on Feb. 22 at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh. This year’s edition features an international lineup of stars from Japan, Hong Kong, and Dubai. Meanwhile, American contenders are notably absent, opting to stay stateside for alternative campaigns.

With the Saudi Cup 2025 serving as a primary international race, its outcome could ripple effect on Kentucky Derby Prep Races. The presence of top-tier contenders adds intrigue for bettors looking to analyze form lines ahead of major spring races. 

While this race does not directly influence Kentucky Derby odds, the performance of younger horses in the undercard events, notably the Saudi Derby, may shape Kentucky Derby betting strategies in the coming weeks.

International Superstars Dominate the Field

The list of likely Saudi Cup runners includes Hong Kong’s 10-time Group 1 winner, Romantic Warrior, who will make his dirt debut with James McDonald aboard. Dubai World Cup (G1) winner Laurel River also enters, representing the UAE-based trainer Bhupat Seemar. Japan sends a formidable group, led by last year’s Saudi Cup runner-up Ushba Tesoro, alongside Wilson Tesoro and Ramjet.

The American contingent is thin this year. White Abarrio, the 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) champion and recent Pegasus World Cup Invitational Stakes (G1) winner, was expected to return but will instead focus on a U.S. campaign.

Senor Buscador, the 2024 Saudi Cup champion, abruptly retired before his scheduled Pegasus start, further reducing U.S. representation.

Trainer Kenny McPeek secured a Saudi Cup berth for Rattle N Roll after winning the local Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup (G3). Todd Pletcher-trained Locked, the Pegasus runner-up, is listed as a probable but may remain in the U.S. for the March 1 Santa Anita Handicap (G1).

Saudi Derby and Kentucky Derby Implications

One of the key undercard races, the $1.5 million Saudi Derby (G3), takes on special significance as it acts as a launching point toward the UAE Derby (G2) on April 5. The UAE Derby has effectively become a “Win and You’re In” event for the Kentucky Derby (G1), making the Saudi Derby an early indicator of which international contenders could end up in Louisville on the first Saturday in May.

Bob Baffert sends Getaway Car, a promising runner looking to establish himself against international competition. Chad Summers’ Cyclone State, winner of the Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct, also enters with high expectations. 

Japan brings a strong group with four probable entries, while European-based contenders include Apples and Bananas from Joseph O’Brien and Antelope Canyon, trained by Roger Varian.

Golden Vekoma, fresh off a win in the UAE Two Thousand Guineas (G3), is another name to watch. A strong showing in the Saudi Derby could propel him toward the UAE Derby and, ultimately, Churchill Downs.

Supporting Races and Additional U.S. Entries

The Saudi Cup weekend features diverse races on different surfaces and distances. One is the Riyadh Dirt Sprint (G2), in which the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Sprint (G1) winner Straight No Chaser will be the lone American representative.

In the 1351 Turf Sprint (G2T), Howard Wolowitz, a Grade 1 winner from the U.S., will carry American hopes against a deep international field.

This year’s scheduling also enhances the appeal of the Saudi Cup for horses aiming to compete in the Dubai World Cup. With a more extended break between the two races, connections may be more inclined to attempt both, making the Saudi Cup a crucial prep for Dubai’s marquee race.

As international racing heats up, bettors will find plenty of opportunities to evaluate form and adjust their strategies. Whether wagering on the Saudi Cup or tracking horses for future races, fans can find all the latest odds and insights by visiting our racebook.