Potential Retirement Imminent for Mostahdaf at Breeders’ Cup
Mostahdaf Set to Round off Career in Breeders’ Cup Turf
In a surprising turn of events, Mostahdaf’s connections have decided to skip the Qipco Champion Stakes and instead target the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Turf next month. The decision was influenced by the unsuitable ground conditions at Ascot last Saturday.
The talented horse had already showcased his abilities by triumphing in both the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Juddmonte International at York earlier this year. With hopes high for completing a remarkable Group One hat-trick on Champions Day, his team stressed that his participation would depend on favorable ground conditions.
Despite initially receiving approval after assessing the track prior to racing, concerns emerged following the grueling Long Distance Cup race which kicked off proceedings. Racing manager Angus Gold explained how feedback from top jockeys William Buick and Rab Havlin swayed their decision-making process:
“The reigning champion jockey (Buick) described it as horrible and heavy, while Havlin stated it was heavy.”
This feedback prompted another evaluation of the track by trainer John Gosden before discussing with owner Sheikha Hissa. Ultimately, they concluded that it wouldn’t be fair for Mostahdaf to conclude his career on unfavorable ground – especially considering he struggled with similar conditions during last year’s Arc.
Looking ahead, Gold expressed confidence in their alternative plan, stating:
“With the option of the Breeders’ Cup still to come, there didn’t seem any point in bowing out on a low note when we can go to California with a chance of running him on fast ground in a couple of weeks’ time if he’s still well.”
If Mostahdaf does compete in the Breeders’ Cup Turf, it will mark his return to a mile and a half distance since finishing fourth in the Dubai Sheema Classic earlier this year. Although his recent best form has been over shorter distances, Gold remains optimistic about Mostahdaf’s ability to handle the extra distance – particularly given the unique American track conditions:
“Over an American mile and a half, going down that hill for the first four furlongs or whatever it is, I think he’ll stay it. Whether he’ll win over it I can’t tell you, but I don’t think stamina will be what beats him.”
This potential trip to America could potentially serve as Mostahdaf’s final race as a five-year-old horse who has enjoyed great success throughout this year. It presents an exciting opportunity for both connections and fans alike.