Economics, the 7/4 favorite, secured a thrilling victory in the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, defeating reigning champion Auguste Rodin by a neck. Trained by William Haggas in England, Economics became the first British-trained horse to win the Group 1 race since 2018. Tom Marquand, who rode Economics to victory, claimed his second Group 1 win of the day, having earlier won the Coolmore America 'Justify' Matron Stakes aboard Porta Fortuna for trainer Donnacha O’Brien.
The race saw a fierce duel between Economics and Auguste Rodin, a six-time Group 1 winner ridden by Ryan Moore. As the horses battled up the home stretch, Economics displayed his grit and determination to hold off the challenge from Auguste Rodin, ultimately clinching the win by a narrow margin. Shin Emperor, trained by Yoshito Yahagi, finished third, adding to his earlier success in the Japanese Derby.
Post-race, Tom Marquand praised Economics for his fighting spirit, describing him as a "proper warrior." Marquand acknowledged the tactical challenges during the race but credited Economics' versatility and resilience for the victory. For Sheikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the winning owner, and Haggas, the win marked a significant achievement, validating early-season decisions and solidifying Economics' reputation as a top-class racehorse.
The winner also gets direct entry into the Breeders' Cup Turf.
Image Royal Bahrain Turf Club
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