At Irish Champions Weekend at Leopardstown, Aidan O’Brien-trained Delacroix delivered a commanding win in the Irish Champion Stakes (G1), marking O’Brien’s 13th victory in the race. The 3-year-old son of Dubawi secured an automatic berth in the $5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf through the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series. Christophe Soumillon’s tactical ride helped Delacroix pull clear in the final stretch, winning by three-quarters of a length over Anmaat. O’Brien praised Delacroix’s power and consistency, highlighting the horse’s promising options for the remainder of the season.

Other notable winners included Fallen Angel, who won the Matron Stakes (G1) with grit and secured a spot in the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf, and Benvenuto Cellini, who dominated the Juvenile Stakes (G2) to earn a place in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. Both horses showcased strong performances, with Fallen Angel holding off a fierce challenge and Benvenuto Cellini winning by five lengths. As part of the Challenge Series benefits, the Breeders’ Cup will cover entry fees and provide travel allowances for these international contenders to compete at the World Championships at Del Mar.