THE JUDDMONTE INTERNATIONAL STAKES - RUNNERS AND RIDERS - CJRFANTASY
Monday, 18th August 2025 - Frankel, Sea The Stars, Baaeed, Authorized, Enable – these are just some of the famous names to have won the International Stakes down the years, York Racecourse’s grandest prize. Commonly referred to by it’s title sponsor as the Juddmonte International, it is one of Britain’s richest and most prestigious thoroughbred races, with a £1.25m purse on offer, and takes place on day one of York’s historic Ebor Festival.
In 2024, the International was officially crowned the best race in the world at the Longines World Racing Awards, marking the third time in a decade that it has achieved this status. This year’s renewal looks set to justify that tag, with Eclipse hero Delacroix the pick of the bunch. Danon Docile will be flying the flag for Japan as the overseas raider, and how will Ombudsman – the highest-rated runner in the field – fare against such high class opposition? Tune in at 15.35 BST on Wednesday to find out!
In order of XP:
- Ombudsman (10 XP) – The highest rated horse in the race – so the one to beat. A strong and consistent performer with solid recent form, consistently in the top two. Proven at the top level and should be right in the mix if running to his best. One of the leading contenders
- Danon Decile (20 XP) – A Japanese challenger bringing strong international form. Proven over similar distances and could spring a surprise if he adapts well to York. Needs a career-best run but cannot be underestimated.
- Delacroix (30 XP) – A Group 1 winning 3-year old with heaps of potential, having beaten Ombudsman last time out in the prestigious Eclipse. Has already shown class against older rivals. If he continues improving, he could be a major threat here. The higher XP play helps against his rival.
- See The Fire (40 XP) – Progressive type who has stepped up with every run. Tough and reliable, with top-class jockeyship on his side. Should be competitive and looks a lively contender for a top finish.
- Daryz (40 XP) – French-trained and unbeaten so far, showing great potential. This is a big step up in class, but his unbeaten streak suggests he has plenty of ability. A fascinating runner who may be the XP pick!
- Birr Castle (500 XP) – The veteran of the field, now 5 years old. Has ability but looks a notch below the very best here, and is put in as a pacemaker for Ombudsman. However, after the performance of Qirat in the Qatar Sussex Stakes – anything is possible!
Trends:
- Age – 7 of the last 12 winners were aged 4 or older, 5 of the last 12 winners were three-year-olds.
- Last Run – 8 of the last 12 winners won on their most recent run, 10 of the last 12 winners had their last run within 53 days.
- Season Form – All of the last 12 winners had at least 3 previous runs that season.
- Distance Form – 10 of the last 12 winners had at least 1 previous run over 1m2f or 1m3f.
- Course Form – Only 3 of the last 12 winners had at least 1 previous run at York.
- Rating – 10 of the last 12 winners had a rating of 120 or higher.
- Group 1 Wins – 1 of the last 12 winners had at least 1 previous Group 1 win.
CJRF Tip:
1st – Danon Docile
2nd – Delacroix
3rd – Daryz
ENDS
