Record-Breaking Line-Up Promises “Race of the Season” at York’s Juddmonte International

York Racecourse’s chief executive, William Derby, expressed his excitement for what could be the most competitive renewal of the Juddmonte International in recent memory. With a record-breaking 13 declarations for Wednesday’s feature race, the stage is set for what many are calling the “race of the season” at this year’s Ebor Festival.

The boost in entries follows a significant 25% increase in prize money for the Juddmonte International, making it the richest race in York’s history. Derby and the race sponsors have been rewarded with a stellar field that includes Aidan O’Brien’s Derby and Eclipse winner, City Of Troy, alongside top-class contenders from across the globe.

Among those set to challenge City Of Troy are Bluestocking, widely regarded as the best middle-distance filly in training, France’s impressive King Edward VII Stakes victor Calandagan, and Japanese raider Durezza, the reigning St Leger winner. The international flavor is further enhanced by the presence of two elite French challengers, making this year’s race truly global.

William Derby couldn’t contain his excitement, stating: “We are delighted. We’ll see whether it is the race of the season at the end of the season, but we couldn’t be more thrilled with the field. It’s the largest line-up we’ve ever had since the race was first run in 1972, and with such high-quality declarations, it’s a race that every racing fan will want to see.”

The undercard is just as intriguing, with the Tattersalls Acomb Stakes featuring the highly-anticipated clash between Derby joint-favourites, Ruling Court and The Lion In Winter. The race has drawn 11 entries following the lifting of certain restrictions, making it one of the richest juvenile races in the country and now offering a ‘win-and-you’re-in’ ticket to the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Mile.

Adding further prestige to the meeting, Irish Derby winner Los Angeles will be the standout contender in the Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes. York’s team are thrilled to have such a quality lineup on the opening day of the festival, which Derby likened to the opening days of the Cheltenham Festival and Royal Ascot.

“We were over at Ballydoyle recently, and Aidan was considering Los Angeles for the Great Voltigeur, so to see the Irish Derby winner line up is brilliant,” Derby added. “The field is packed with stars, and it’s fantastic racing all round on Wednesday. It’s the richest race day we’ve ever staged, and we’re pleased to have global interest, with the race being shown live in Japan thanks to Durezza’s participation.”

As anticipation builds ahead of the Juddmonte International, racing enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be one of the most memorable days in recent racing history.