Connections of Japanese raider Durezza are eagerly anticipating a showdown with Aidan O’Brien’s Derby winner City Of Troy in the Juddmonte International Stakes at York next week.
The Tomohito Ozeki-trained four-year-old has won five of his eight starts, demonstrating versatility over distances from 10 furlongs to nearly two miles. After a successful career in Japan, including a win in the Kikuka Sho (Japanese St Leger), Durezza is making his international debut at the Ebor Festival’s premier event.
Yusuke Sai, racing manager for Northern Farm, which bred Durezza, noted, “Although he won the Japanese St Leger, his other victories have been over shorter distances. We believe 10 furlongs to a mile and a half is his optimal range. The International Stakes is a top race, and we’re excited about facing City Of Troy, which appears to be the best horse in Europe right now.”
Durezza, a son of Japanese Derby winner Duramente, will be ridden by Christophe Lemaire, who missed Durezza’s last outing due to injury. The colt’s odds for the race are between 16-1 and 33-1. Sai believes the flat track at York will suit Durezza and is pleased with how he has settled into the cooler weather, contrasting with Japan’s humid summer.
In addition to Durezza, Maljoom is also gearing up for the Juddmonte International. Trainer William Haggas plans to step Maljoom up to a mile and a quarter after notable performances in the Queen Anne and Sussex Stakes. Haggas believes the ground at York could benefit Maljoom, although he acknowledges the uncertainty of whether the horse will handle the increased distance.