US$33.5 million dollars in purses attracts strong global fields
Since the Saudi Cup inception in 2020, we have distributed the races to operators around the world. This year’s edition on February 24th is expected to be the best yet with top horses from 12 countries competing.
The US$20 million Saudi Cup field is dominated by US and Japanese horses. There are five American runners, including 2023 Breeders’ Cup Classic winner White Abarrio, while Japan also sends five horses, led by Breeders’ Cup runner-up, Derma Sotogata. There are three horses carrying the hopes of the Middle East.
On the pari-mutuel side, Hong Kong Jockey Club will host World Pools on races 3-9 from King Abdulaziz Racecourse with operators from the United States, Canada, Australia, Uruguay, United Kingdom, Panama, Ireland, France, Brazil, South Africa, Germany, Netherlands, and Panama commingling into the pools. On behalf of SIS, PGI will host international common pools on the bet types not offered by HKJC.
With a strong Japanese participation in the Saudi Cup, separate wagering pools will be hosted by the Japan Racing Association for the first time. Turkey Jockey Club and Hipódromo Chile will also host their own separate pools for their countries.
In addition to the expanded pari-mutuel markets, fixed-odds wagering is set to be offered in over 60 countries on the Saudi Cup day as well as the International Jockey’s Challenge on Friday, February 23rd. For the first time, fixed odds, including early prices and derivatives, will be available in Colorado through sportsbook operator, bet365.
The SIS Group represents content from over 150 racetracks to global wagering operators.
Michele Fischer, Vice President, SIS Content Services, said:
“Through our five year relationship with the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, we have seen tremendous growth on Saudi Cup day as well as interest in their domestic racing.
As the richest horse race in the world, the Saudi Cup attracts the top horses from all over the globe. We expect this year to surpass all others.”
Race Schedule – February 24, 2004 King Abdulaziz Race Course
