2021 Saudi Cup Preview

The second renewal of the $20 million Saudi Cup takes place this weekend and with the race attracting some top class horses we have previewed the contest with a big selection.

With many stars taking trying to land the most expensive dirt race in the world we have looked into the field and the American runner for trainer Bob Baffert takes the eye.

Charlatan was an expensive purchase as a foal being bought for $700,000 and the colt has lived up to his price tag so far in his career with some superb performances.

In March 2020 the four year old made his debut and got off to a winning start by close to 11 lengths at Santa Anita over a mile.

He was then entered into his first Grade One event in May and although winning the event was unfortunately disqualified.

Having his first run since May, he came back in December to land the Grade One Malibu Stakes over seven furlongs at Santa Anita.

Although he is stepping up in trip in this event he should take to it well and he is drawn perfectly to come from off the pace.

With 15 runners set to head to post we have also picked out an each way selection and at a double figure price the William Mott trained Tacitus could outrun his odds.

The American five year old has performed to a high standard in America during his career, especially of late when being in and around the frame in some of the most expensive races in the world.

Back in July the Juddmonte Farms owned horse won a Grade Two over 1m2f by close to nine lengths on the dirt and backed that up when second behind the smart Global Campaign in a Grade One at Saratoga.

Staying at 10 furlongs, the five year old went to Belmont Park and was a close third in the Grade One Gold Cup stakes.

The Breeders Cup Classic at Keeneland was his last outing in November and although finishing fourth, it was not far behind the winner and that form looks solid heading into this event.

He drops in trip slightly which could play to his strengths and at 12/1 is worth an each way punt.