The upcoming seventh running of the Saudi Cup (G1) on February 14 in Riyadh features a strong international field highlighted by defending champion Forever Young, who aims to become the first dual winner of the race. The event includes six American horses such as Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile winner Nysos and Goodwood Stakes winner Nevada Beach, both trained by Bob Baffert, who plans to attend the races in person. Other notable contenders include Steve Asmussen’s Magnitude and Rattle N Roll, along with Japanese entrants like Luxor Cafe and Sunrise Zipangu. The Saudi Derby (G3) and Riyadh Dirt Sprint (G2) also showcase competitive fields with prominent American and Japanese horses, while the Neom Turf Cup (G1T) is elevated to Group 1 status with a $3 million purse, attracting top runners from multiple countries.

In addition to the marquee Saudi Cup, the racing program features several other high-profile races including the Red Sea Turf Handicap (G2T) and the 1351 Turf Sprint (G2T), drawing international stars such as Melbourne Cup runner-up Goodie Two Shoes and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Cup winner Lazzat. The Saudi International Handicap continues to promote global participation by inviting horses from emerging racing jurisdictions, with new entrants from Belgium and Denmark joining competitors from Spain, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. This diverse lineup underscores the Saudi Cup’s growing prestige as a premier event on the international racing calendar.