Rebel’s Romance regains G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf title in Del Mar thriller

Rebel's Romance became the first horse to win the G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf in non-consecutive years as he saw off the late challenge of Rousham Park in the 12-furlong feature at Del Mar on Saturday, 2 November. 

The son of Dubawi had readily captured the race at Keeneland in 2022 and returned to the United States in superb form following top-level wins in the UAE, Hong Kong and Germany earlier in the season. 

Sent forward from his wide draw by William Buick, Rebel’s Romance tacked over to race in fourth before taking closer order to dispute second on the outside of Far Bridge entering the home straight on the first circuit. 

Rebel’s Romance moved to within a length of Cabo Spirit down the back and cruised up to take up the running from the long-time leader turning for home. 

Having kicked four lengths clear a furlong out, the Charlie Appleby-trained six-year-old had to be kept up to his work as Rousham Park closed strongly, with a neck separating the duo at the line. 

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said: “We have huge faith in Rebel’s Romance. He is one of the Godolphin greats now. He has won on numerous continents and is ultra reliable. It was a little close in the end, but it was a fabulous result. Well done to Charlie, his team, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. 

“Rebel’s Romance is a classic example of what we do so well at Godolphin. To win in Europe, Asia, Dubai and here at the highest level is what we are all about. It’s absolutely brilliant for all of us at Godolphin because he is a flagbearer for us.” 

Charlie Appleby said: “I don’t need to tell William how to ride Rebel’s Romance. He knows him inside out as he is basically part of the furniture. Throughout the race I was pleased with his pitch, and I was pleased he made the move when he did because the horse keeps lengthening. Full credit to the second horse, who was closing, but we had the momentum our way. I am delighted for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and team Godolphin. 

“Rebel’s Romance is a superstar. You watch him run around there and you really feel it, because you want him to win. I am so pleased for the horse to win at two Breeders’ Cups. The mileage he has done and to be campaigned at the level he has for that long, it takes a lot of guts. 

“He owes us nothing and he will tell us how to plan his races, but we would like to take him back to Dubai and work towards a Sheema Classic. It’s a race that he’s obviously won and it’s very close to our hearts. Dubai World Cup Night is a huge meeting for us all and, to have a horse like him turning up draws all the attention.” 

William Buick said: “Rebel’s Romance is an incredible horse. He is such a joy to ride. He is a beautiful horse, who has been excellently managed by Charlie and the team. He is an international superstar. 

“I spoke to Charlie this morning about the race. We had post 11, which is a little bit awkward, so we agreed to give him a positive ride and hopefully he would be able to relax and get a breather in. He had that kick from the turn and, when he felt the competition, he went again. 

“Well done to Charlie, his team, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. This is what it is all about.”