12-Year Trends in the Juddmonte International Stakes at York

The Juddmonte International Stakes, a prestigious Group 1 flat race held at York, has long been a highlight of the British racing calendar. Run over 1 mile 2½ furlongs (10.5 furlongs) on the flat, this race attracts some of the finest thoroughbreds aged three and older. Sponsored by Juddmonte, the race is a true test of stamina, speed, and class. Let’s dive into the key trends from the last twelve years that have shaped the outcomes of this iconic race.


Age and Experience Matter

Over the past 12 runnings, 7 winners were aged four or older, while 5 were three-year-olds. This suggests a slight edge for more mature horses, likely due to their greater experience and physical development. However, the presence of several three-year-old winners shows that top-class younger horses can and do compete successfully.

All winners had solid flat racing experience, with every winner having at least 6 previous flat runs and 3 or more flat wins. This indicates that horses with proven form and consistency on the flat are favored in this race.


Betting Market Insights

The Juddmonte International tends to favor the market leaders. Six of the last 12 winners were favorites, and 10 of the 12 winners were in the top three in the betting market. This trend highlights the importance of form and reputation going into the race, with punters and experts often backing the most reliable contenders.


Recent Form and Racing Pattern

Recent race form is a strong indicator of success. Eight of the last 12 winners had won their previous race, and 10 had raced within 53 days of the International Stakes. This suggests that horses in good current form and fitness are more likely to perform well.

Notably, the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown has been a key prep race, with 3 winners coming directly from there — all of whom won their Eclipse run. Conversely, horses coming from the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot have placed but not won, indicating that the Eclipse Stakes form might be a better guide for this race.


Course and Distance Experience

While only 3 winners had previous runs at York, 2 of those had won there before, showing that familiarity with the course can be beneficial but is not essential. More importantly, 10 of the 12 winners had prior experience over the race distance or similar (10-11 furlongs), with 7 having won at that distance. This underlines the importance of proven stamina and ability over middle distances.


Class and Ratings

The Juddmonte International is a race for the elite. Eleven of the last 12 winners had at least one previous Group 1 victory, and all had at least two wins at Group 1 to Group 3 level. Additionally, 10 winners had an official rating of 120 or higher, confirming that only the highest-rated horses tend to prevail.


Seasonal Form

Seasonal form is crucial. All winners had at least three runs in the season before winning, and 11 had at least two wins that season. This shows that horses peaking in form during the summer months are the ones to watch.


Recent Winners Snapshot (2015-2024)

  • 2024: City Of Troy (3yo) by Justify, ridden by Ryan Moore, trained by A.P. O’Brien.
  • 2023: Mostahdaf (5yo) by Frankel, ridden by Frankie Dettori, trained by John and Thady Gosden.
  • 2022: Baaeed (4yo) by Sea The Stars, ridden by Jim Crowley, trained by William Haggas.
  • 2021: Mishriff (4yo) by Make Believe, ridden by David Egan, trained by John and Thady Gosden.
  • 2020: Ghaiyyath (5yo) by Dubawi, ridden by William Buick, trained by Charlie Appleby.
  • 2019: Japan (3yo) by Galileo, ridden by Ryan Moore, trained by A.P. O’Brien.
  • 2018: Roaring Lion (3yo) by Kittens Joy, ridden by Oisin Murphy, trained by John and Thady Gosden.
  • 2017: Ulysses (4yo) by Galileo, ridden by Jim Crowley, trained by Sir Michael Stoute.
  • 2016: Postponed (5yo) by Dubawi, ridden by Andrea Atzeni, trained by Roger Varian.
  • 2015: Arabian Queen (3yo) by Dubawi, ridden by Silvestre De Sousa, trained by D.R.C. Elsworth.

Summary

The Juddmonte International Stakes at York is a race that rewards class, experience, and current form. Mature horses with proven Group 1 credentials and strong seasonal form dominate, but talented three-year-olds can also shine. Betting markets tend to be reliable, with favorites and well-fancied runners frequently winning. Horses coming from the Eclipse Stakes with a recent win have a particularly strong record, and prior experience over the distance is a key factor.

For punters and enthusiasts, these trends provide valuable insights into what it takes to win one of the most prestigious middle-distance races in Europe.


If you want to follow the Juddmonte International Stakes closely, keep an eye on the top-rated, in-form horses aged four and up, especially those coming off a recent win in the Eclipse Stakes or with proven stamina over 10-11 furlongs. This race continues to be a thrilling showcase of the best flat racing talent in the world.

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