City Of Troy Gears Up for High-Stakes Showdown at the Juddmonte International

With the racing world eagerly anticipating another stellar performance, City Of Troy is set to make a statement in Wednesday’s highly anticipated Juddmonte International at York. The star-studded line-up promises to deliver one of the most thrilling spectacles of the season, with some of Europe’s best horses in contention.

Trainer Aidan O’Brien and the Coolmore team have been unwavering in their praise for the son of Triple Crown winner Justify. O’Brien has hailed City Of Troy as the finest horse he has ever trained, while Michael Tabor, after last year’s Dewhurst, went so far as to call him "our Frankel." Despite a stumble earlier this year in the 2000 Guineas—an underwhelming performance for which O’Brien took full responsibility—the colt rebounded magnificently, claiming the Derby with flair and proving his class.

His subsequent victory in the Eclipse, though not as visually dazzling, was still a display of grit and determination. O’Brien attributed the workmanlike nature of the win to the soft ground at Sandown, conditions that failed to showcase City Of Troy’s full potential. With firmer ground expected at York and a long four-furlong home straight ideally suited to his powerful stride, expectations are once again sky high.

“This is the race we’ve been targeting all along, and everything has gone smoothly in preparation,” said O’Brien. “The ground looks more favorable than it was at Sandown, and York’s straight should suit his style. He’s been exceptional from the start, and what he’s done so far has been based purely on raw ability. We’ve made a few adjustments since Sandown, and we’re confident he’ll be at his best.”

The race is shaping up to be a clash for the ages, with an assembly of top-class rivals that include some of Europe’s finest three-year-olds, seasoned older horses, and even the formidable filly Bluestocking. The field, the largest since the race’s inception in 1972, also includes a Japanese challenger in the St Leger winner—a testament to the global interest and prestige of this event.

Among those seeking to topple City Of Troy is James Fanshawe’s Ambiente Friendly, who finished second to him in the Derby. Ambiente Friendly subsequently ran in the Irish Derby, where he looked a likely winner before being outstayed by Los Angeles, who lines up in the Great Voltigeur this week in preparation for the St Leger. Many experts believe Ambiente Friendly is better suited to the 10-furlong distance of the Juddmonte, a view shared by his jockey, Robert Havlin.

“If you watched both Derbys, Ambiente Friendly was still on the bridle at the two-furlong marker, suggesting a shorter trip could bring out the best in him,” Havlin said. “This race could be the highlight of the season, and we’re hopeful of turning the tables on City Of Troy. Ambiente Friendly is maturing quickly, and his ability to cruise through gears without needing much urging is a huge advantage. York’s fast track and strong pace should play to his strengths, and he’s agile enough to seize any opening in a big field.”

As the countdown to Wednesday’s showdown continues, the stage is set for an exhilarating race where the finest equine talent will be put to the ultimate test. For City Of Troy, the Juddmonte International represents not just another race, but a chance to further cement his legacy as one of the sport’s brightest stars.