In the world of horse racing, few names carry the weight of Aidan O’Brien. The Ballydoyle maestro has a knack for turning promising colts into champions, and his latest star, a two-year-old colt named Italy, is generating serious buzz. After a dramatic debut and a controversial ban from Royal Ascot, Italy is now the talk of the town as he gears up for the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket this Saturday. Punters are already calling him “banker material,” and the odds are tightening fast. So, what makes this horse so special?

Italy’s story began with a stunning debut at Leopardstown in May. Sent off as the 4-9 favorite, the colt showed raw talent, overcoming inexperience to claim victory. Those in the know were quick to proclaim that Italy could win anywhere his hooves touched next. The form from that race has only grown stronger, with the runner-up, Thesecretadversary, finishing a close second in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot, a race Italy was barred from entering due to eligibility rules tied to his sire’s racing distance. That setback only fueled the fire for O’Brien and his team, who now have their sights set on Newmarket’s Group 2 prize.

What sets Italy apart is not just his debut performance but the confidence radiating from O’Brien’s camp. Ryan Moore, O’Brien’s go-to jockey, is known for waiting until the last moment to choose his rides. Yet, in a rare move, Moore has already committed to Italy for the 7f Superlative Stakes, signaling unwavering belief in the colt’s potential. This early decision speaks volumes, especially when you consider O’Brien’s other contender, the £350,000 purchase Dorset, is likely to skip the race. The betting market reflects this faith, with Italy’s odds slashed from 11-10 to as short as 8-13. Punters are piling in, and it’s easy to see why.

The Superlative Stakes is no ordinary race. Newmarket’s July Course is a proving ground for future stars, with past winners like Native Trail and Master Of The Seas going on to claim major honors. Italy faces stiff competition, particularly from Charlie Appleby’s Saba Desert, a promising son of Dubawi who impressed on debut at Sandown. But Italy’s pedigree and early form suggest he’s a cut above. Sired by a stallion with proven staying power, Italy combines speed with stamina, a rare blend that makes him a versatile threat. His debut showed he’s still learning, yet he powered through like a seasoned pro. If he takes another step forward, Saturday could be a defining moment.

The hype around Italy extends beyond the racetrack. He’s already the 12-1 favorite for next year’s Derby, a testament to the lofty expectations surrounding him. A commanding performance at Newmarket could see those odds plummet further, cementing his status as a Classic contender. For O’Brien, who has dominated the sport with 11 Epsom Derby wins and countless Group 1 triumphs, Italy represents another chance to etch his name deeper into racing history. His meticulous approach, honed at Ballydoyle’s state-of-the-art facilities, ensures no stone is left unturned in preparing his horses. Italy is no exception.

For racing fans, the Superlative Stakes is a must-watch. Will Italy live up to the hype and deliver a performance that echoes the greats? Or will Appleby’s Saba Desert steal the show? The stage is set for a thrilling showdown, with Italy carrying the weight of expectation and the hopes of punters who see him as a sure thing. One thing is certain: when Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore are this confident, it’s wise to pay attention.

As Saturday approaches, the racing world is abuzz with anticipation. Italy’s journey from Leopardstown to Newmarket is one of promise and intrigue, a colt on the cusp of greatness. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, this is a horse worth watching. Tune in to see if Italy can turn potential into glory and take his first step toward racing immortality.