OFFICIAL! SEAN LEVEY CONFIRMED AS AIDAN O’BRIEN WILL RIDE SCANDINAVIA OR LAMBOURN IN THE ST LEGER TO FILL THE VOID LEFT BY MOORE WITH ODDS OF 5-4 OVERALL
The racing world is abuzz with the latest announcement from the Aidan O’Brien camp, as Sean Levey has been confirmed to take the reins on either Scandinavia or Lambourn in the upcoming Betfred St Leger at Doncaster on September 13, 2025. This decision comes as a response to the absence of O’Brien’s regular jockey, Ryan Moore, who will be engaged at the Irish Champions Weekend at Leopardstown, leaving a significant void in the saddle for one of the most anticipated races of the season. With the odds currently standing at 5-4 for Scandinavia, the Goodwood Cup winner, and strong support for the dual Derby hero Lambourn, this development adds a fresh layer of intrigue to the final British Classic of the year.
Aidan O’Brien, the master trainer from Ballydoyle, has long been a dominant force in the St Leger, securing eight victories in the historic race, which is the oldest of the five British Classics, dating back to 1776. His formidable stable houses an impressive array of contenders, with Scandinavia and Lambourn leading the charge. Scandinavia, a Justify colt, has emerged as the ante-post favorite following a powerful performance in the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup, where he outbattled stablemate Illinois in a thrilling finish. That victory showcased his stamina and tenacity, qualities that make him a strong candidate for the 1m6½f test at Doncaster. Meanwhile, Lambourn, a son of Australia, has already etched his name in racing lore with victories in both the Epsom and Irish Derbies earlier this season. Despite a disappointing fifth-place finish in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York, O’Brien remains optimistic about his chances, noting that the race was more of a “day at the races” and did not reflect Lambourn’s true potential.
Sean Levey, a 37-year-old jockey with deep ties to Ballydoyle, is no stranger to high-pressure rides. Having served his apprenticeship under O’Brien in Ireland, Levey has a longstanding relationship with the trainer, which culminated in a memorable St Leger victory aboard Jan Brueghel in 2024. His experience and familiarity with O’Brien’s meticulous training methods make him a natural choice to step into Moore’s shoes. Levey’s ability to deliver in clutch moments was evident in his confident handling of Jan Brueghel, where he secured a neck victory over Illinois in a dramatic finish. His selection for either Scandinavia or Lambourn underscores O’Brien’s trust in his ability to navigate the complexities of the Doncaster showpiece.
The choice between Scandinavia and Lambourn will be a critical one. Scandinavia’s recent form, particularly his Goodwood triumph, suggests he is peaking at the right time. His ability to stay the distance and his relentless drive make him a formidable contender, especially with the betting market reflecting confidence in his chances at 5-4. Lambourn, however, brings a different dynamic to the table. His dual Derby wins highlight his class, but questions linger about his stamina over the extended St Leger trip. O’Brien has hinted that the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe remains a possibility for Lambourn, which could influence the final decision on his participation at Doncaster. The trainer’s strategy of entering multiple runners, including the promising Stay True, further bolsters his chances of adding a ninth St Leger title to his illustrious resume.
The absence of Ryan Moore, who is committed to riding Auguste Rodin in the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, has forced O’Brien to reshuffle his jockey lineup. Moore’s fractured femur, sustained earlier this season, has ruled him out of the St Leger Festival, creating opportunities for other riders like Levey and Wayne Lordan, who is also expected to take a mount in the race. Lordan, a stalwart of the Ballydoyle operation, previously guided Lambourn to Epsom glory and could be in line to partner one of O’Brien’s trio, which also includes Stay True, a Galileo colt with solid each-way claims.
The St Leger promises to be a blockbuster event, with O’Brien’s runners dominating the betting. Scandinavia’s consistency and Lambourn’s proven class make them the horses to beat, while Levey’s appointment adds a layer of confidence for punters. The race’s £700,000 prize purse and its status as a stamina-sapping Classic ensure that all eyes will be on Doncaster. As the countdown to September 13 continues, the racing community eagerly awaits O’Brien’s final decision on which horse Levey will ride, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown in the Town Moor Classic.
