William Derby expressed his excitement about what promises to be the race of the season—the richest-ever Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday.
As York’s chief executive and clerk of the course, Derby believes the track’s 25 percent increase in prize money has been rewarded with a field that is not only numerous but also exceptionally high-quality.
A total of 13 runners will compete, including Aidan O’Brien’s Derby and Eclipse winner City Of Troy, the top middle-distance filly Bluestocking (owned by the sponsors), two distinguished French contenders, and the Japanese St Leger winner.
The meeting will also feature the current ante-post joint-favourites for the Derby—Ruling Court and The Lion In Winter—in the Tattersalls Acomb Stakes, along with Irish Derby winner Los Angeles in the Sky Bet Great Voltigeur. This lineup sets the stage for a festival-like atmosphere, comparable to the Cheltenham Festival and Royal Ascot’s opening days.
Derby commented: “We are delighted with the field. We’ll see if it lives up to being the race of the season, but we’re thrilled with the entries. It’s a record number of declarations since the race began in 1972, and with such an international field, it looks like a stellar renewal. I’m very interested to see who comes out on top.”
He noted the field’s impressive representation of the three-year-old generation, course form, and the inclusion of Bluestocking, showcasing the diversity and quality of the race. “It’s the richest race we’ve ever staged, and being rewarded with such a line-up is exactly what every race fan wants to see.”
Derby praised the undercard, emphasising the Tattersalls Acomb now features a top-notch field of 11, being the richest juvenile race in the UK and a qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Mile. He noted that Aidan O’Brien is considering running Irish Derby winner Los Angeles in the Great Voltigeur, hoping for success like Continuous at the St Leger. Derby also highlighted the form of King’s Gambit from Harry Charlton's stable. He called it a fantastic day of racing, the richest ever staged, with Durezza's participation attracting live coverage in Japan.