‘He’s got a lot of product’ Ombudsman returns home to collect prize after 150-1 pick threatens another Group 1 surprise
In a thrilling turn of events at the Juddmonte International, Ombudsman, the rising star of the turf, powered home to claim victory, reversing his Coral-Eclipse form with Delacroix in spectacular fashion. Trained by John Gosden and ridden by William Buick, the colt delivered a performance that left spectators in awe, cementing his status as a formidable contender in Group 1 racing. The race, however, was not without its surprises, as the 150-1 pacemaker Birr Castle nearly stole the show, threatening yet another upset in a contest already brimming with drama.
Ombudsman’s journey to this victory has been nothing short of remarkable. Earlier this year, his commanding win at Royal Ascot showcased his potential, but a muddling pace in the Eclipse left him with excuses and a second-place finish to Delacroix. This time, at York, there were no such hindrances. Buick guided Ombudsman with precision, allowing the colt to steadily close the gap on the front-running Birr Castle, who set a blistering pace under Robert Havlin. The Andre Fabre-trained five-year-old, lent to ensure a strong gallop for Godolphin’s star, exceeded expectations by holding on for a gallant third place, earning a career-best Racing Post Rating (RPR) of 118.
The Juddmonte International has long been regarded as one of the world’s premier races, with three victories in the past decade earning it the title of the best race globally. This year’s edition lived up to its reputation, not only for its competitive field but also for its bizarre twists. A thronged paddock buzzed with anticipation as stars from Ireland, France, and Japan paraded before the showdown. Yet it was Havlin, a stalwart of the Gosden stable, who nearly turned the race on its head with his bold front-running tactics aboard Birr Castle. John Gosden, speaking post-race, humorously remarked, “I have to call Andre Fabre and tell him he frightened the living daylights out of us!” Havlin himself admitted, “I thought we’d won about a furlong out,” reflecting on the moment he believed Birr Castle might hold off the charging favorites.
Ombudsman’s performance was a testament to his class and resilience. Despite the unconventional race dynamics, he mowed down his rivals with ease, crossing the finish line comfortably ahead of Delacroix, who managed to edge past Birr Castle in the final strides for second. The Japanese raider Danon Decile, expected to challenge, faded disappointingly, unable to replicate his earlier promise. The final RPR for Ombudsman, a 126+, may appear below par for a Juddmonte International winner, but his Royal Ascot form suggests he is capable of much more. Analysts note that his ability to handle varying race conditions and overcome a strong pacemaker’s challenge speaks volumes about his versatility.
Birr Castle’s unexpected heroics were the talk of the race. The 150-1 shot, whose previous form included a close-up sixth in the Prix Ganay, ran a career-defining race. His third-place finish, just half a length behind Delacroix, underscored the unpredictability of racing and the fine margins that separate triumph from obscurity. Havlin’s ride was a masterclass in pace-setting, turning what was meant to be a supporting role into a near Group 1 upset. For Gosden, the race was a mix of triumph and frustration, as he expressed irritation at a dramatic “bing-bong” announcement that disrupted the post-race atmosphere, quipping, “How dare they do that sort of thing!”
The victory marked another milestone for Ombudsman, whose consistency at the highest level is becoming his hallmark. His connections now face the enviable task of plotting his next move, with speculation rife about potential targets in Europe or beyond. For Buick, the win was a moment of redemption after the Eclipse disappointment, and he praised Ombudsman’s heart and determination. “He’s got a lot of product,” Buick said, a nod to the colt’s ability to deliver when it matters most.
As the dust settles on this extraordinary Juddmonte International, the racing world is left buzzing with excitement. Ombudsman’s triumph, coupled with Birr Castle’s valiant effort, has added another chapter to York’s storied history. For fans and punters alike, the race was a reminder of the sport’s unpredictability and the magic that unfolds when talent, strategy, and sheer grit collide on the Knavesmire. With Ombudsman back in the winner’s circle, the stage is set for more thrilling battles in the months to come.
