Much-loved Talismanic is retired from racing

Talismanic, arguably one of Godolphin’s most popular horses with racing fans and the team alike, has been retired from racing.

The flashy bay/brown horse was trained by Andre Fabre throughout his career, breaking his maiden by no fewer than seven lengths at two.

From then on, he raced almost exclusively in Stakes company, winning twice at Listed level at three, the same season he finished a creditable fourth in the G1 Prix du Jockey Club.

Two further Black Type wins followed during the summer of his four-year-old campaign, including in the G2 Prix Maurice de Nieuil, where he beat this year’s Melbourne Cup runner-up Marmelo.

Talismanic’s finest hour came last November, with victory in the G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf at Del Mar. Under Mickael Barzalona, Talismanic came with a superb run down the home straight to win by half a length, setting a new course record and beating nine G1 winners in the process.

He rounded off his 2017 campaign with a creditable second in the G1 Hong Kong Vase.

His trainer Andre Fabre said, “Talismanic was a wonderful horse to train – he showed a great attitude at home and at the races, he was extremely sound, and he performed at a high level at three, four and five. 
“His win in the Breeders’ Cup Turf epitomised what we are looking for in the modern racehorse – soundness of body, soundness of mind and an adaptability to different tracks and conditions at the highest level.”

Talismanic retires with eight victories to his name, and over £2.5 million in prize money. Stud plans will be announced in due course.