For the first time in the history of the International Jockeys’ Challenge, presented by Diriyah, a local rider claimed the title, as Muhammad Aldaham secured victory with 30 points thanks to two impressive wins.

The Saudi-born jockey made a dream start, taking Round 1 aboard Jawhar Alriyadh (KSA) before doubling up in Round 2 with Jahdoon (KSA). Although he didn’t feature in the remaining two races, his early dominance proved decisive, sealing him the 2025 title.

"I’m extremely proud and very honored to represent my country in the International Challenge," Aldaham said. "It’s good for me and good for my country. I can’t tell you how much this means. I came to ride here when I was 16 years old, and I had a lot of help growing up. I’m blessed."

Aldaham received the trophy from Bader bin Maferj, Chief of Staff at Diriyah, after a thrilling day of racing. His first win came in a dramatic finish, where he edged out James McDonald and Allah Maae (KSA) by a head in Round 1.

"I know this horse well," Aldaham said. "He ran really well a month ago, and it’s great to win this race."

McDonald, an international superstar set to partner Hong Kong’s Romantic Warrior in the Saudi Cup, was left frustrated. "I’m disappointed, I thought I was going to win it, but I finished second," he admitted.

Aldaham had to battle hard for his first victory, but his Round 2 triumph was emphatic. Jahdoon surged clear in the final straight to win by two and three-quarter lengths over Rachel King and Nasser Almuhamadia (KSA).

With Round 3 switching to turf, British-based Oisin Murphy broke the local riders’ dominance. The four-time UK champion jockey partnered the Jimmy Jerkens-trained Honky Tonk Man (IRE) to victory, finally adding his name to the leaderboard.

"He won really well," Murphy said. "I was delighted to be invited and I’d like to thank Prince Bandar and the organizers for putting on a world-class event. It’s my first winner at The Saudi Cup meeting, and I’ve been trying for a couple of years. The competition is incredible."

Round 4, a 2100m turf contest, offered Murphy a final chance to snatch the title from Aldaham. But the female jockeys stole the show.

Rachel King, based in Australia, produced a perfectly timed late charge on Miyagi (IRE), weaving through the field to score by five lengths. Kelly Myers (Monsieur Jumbo) and Sofia Vivas (Pretty Flag) completed the podium.

"It worked out perfectly," King said. "I was told to settle him early, and he finished so strongly. I managed to save a lot of ground and energy."

Her victory, combined with second place in Round 2, earned King a total of 25 points, securing her the runner-up spot. "It’s always special to be part of an event like this, and winning a race makes it even better."

McDonald, despite not winning a race, finished third on the leaderboard with 21 points—collected through a second-place finish in Round 1, third in Round 2, and fourth in Round 3.

Aldaham’s triumph marked a historic moment for Saudi racing, with the 32-year-old showcasing his talent on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

 Image JCSA