‘They said it was impossible’ but Aidan O’Brien is on course to break his own world record for Group One wins in a show of retaliation against “discriminatory” regulations and taxes on the horse racing industry
In the world of horse racing, few names resonate as powerfully as Aidan O’Brien, the master trainer at Ballydoyle Stables in County Tipperary, Ireland. Renowned for his meticulous approach and unrelenting drive, O’Brien has long been a dominant force in the sport, rewriting record books with an almost relentless consistency. In 2017, he set an unprecedented benchmark by securing 28 Group One victories in a single calendar year, surpassing the previous record of 25 set by American trainer Bobby Frankel in 2003. Now, in 2025, O’Brien is poised to shatter his own world record, with his stable already boasting 15 top-flight wins by late August and a clear path to further success. This remarkable campaign is not just a testament to his skill but also a defiant response to what he and others in the industry have called “discriminatory” regulations and taxes threatening the sport’s sustainability.
O’Brien’s journey this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. His stable, backed by the formidable Coolmore operation, has produced a string of standout performances across Europe and beyond. From City of Troy’s commanding victories in the Epsom Derby, Sandown’s Coral-Eclipse, and York’s Juddmonte International to Delacroix’s thrilling triumph in the Eclipse, O’Brien’s horses have showcased an unparalleled blend of talent and preparation. Constitution River’s authoritative win in the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh, marking O’Brien’s 18th victory in that race, further underscores the depth of his 2025 contingent. With upcoming targets like the Betfair Sprint Cup at Haydock and the National Stakes, the Ballydoyle maestro is on track to surpass his 2017 tally, a feat many deemed impossible just eight years ago.
This pursuit of excellence comes against a backdrop of significant challenges for the horse racing industry, particularly in Ireland and Britain. Recent years have seen growing concerns over regulations and taxation policies that industry leaders, including O’Brien, argue unfairly target racing. In Britain, a proposed rise in taxes on horserace betting prompted an unprecedented one-day strike by trainers on September 10, 2024, highlighting the financial strain felt across the sport. O’Brien, while not directly involved in the strike, has been vocal about the need for fair treatment, pointing to the economic contributions of racing, which supports thousands of jobs and generates millions in revenue. In Ireland, similar pressures exist, with smaller trainers struggling to compete as prize money disparities favor powerhouse operations like Ballydoyle. O’Brien’s success, while a beacon of achievement, also amplifies the debate over whether the sport’s regulatory framework stifles competition.
Despite these hurdles, O’Brien’s 2025 campaign is a masterclass in resilience. His ability to adapt and innovate has been key. Unlike many trainers, O’Brien embraces change, tailoring training regimes to each horse’s unique needs. His perfectionist streak—often seen in his meticulous saddling routines or his daily trips to oversee morning gallops—sets him apart. This year, horses like Whistlejacket, a contender for the Al Basti July Cup, and Jan Brueghel, aimed at the Lexus Melbourne Cup, exemplify his knack for preparing equine athletes for the biggest stages. His collaboration with jockey Ryan Moore, widely regarded as the finest of his generation, has further elevated Ballydoyle’s dominance, with Moore’s tactical brilliance complementing O’Brien’s strategic vision.
The global reach of O’Brien’s operation is another factor in his record-breaking trajectory. From Royal Ascot, where he has been crowned leading trainer 13 times, to prestigious races in France, the United States, and Australia, Ballydoyle’s influence is unmatched. His 2024 season alone saw €20 million in prize money, with €9 million from British races, and 2025 promises to push that figure higher. Yet, O’Brien remains grounded, often crediting his team and the Coolmore owners, led by John Magnier, for providing the resources to chase such ambitious goals. “We’re a small link in a big chain,” he told ITV after his 2017 record, a sentiment that reflects his humility amid staggering success.
As O’Brien charges toward a new world record, his campaign is more than a personal triumph—it’s a statement. By defying the odds and navigating a landscape of regulatory and financial challenges, he is proving that excellence can thrive even in adversity. For O’Brien, the pursuit of Group One glory is not just about records; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a sport he has helped redefine.
