Gezora wins Breeders’ Cup 2025 after Ethical Diamond’s success for Willie Mullins | Breeders’ Cup

Historic Highlights from the 2025 Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar

The 2025 Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar was nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by the stunning 28-1 victory of Ethical Diamond in the Turf race, led by the legendary National Hunt trainer, Willie Mullins. This remarkable win marked an unforgettable afternoon that also saw Forever Young become the first-ever Japanese-trained horse to clinch victory in the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Classic.

Mullins Adds Another Trophy to His Collection

Willie Mullins has an impressive track record in National Hunt racing, having secured the British trainers’ championship and the Grand National for two consecutive years. However, Ethical Diamond’s triumph in the $6 million Turf race stands out as one of his crowning achievements.

Rider Dylan Browne McMonagle executed a well-planned strategy, allowing the five-year-old to gradually build momentum before making a powerful move around the home turn. Ethical Diamond surged past last year’s Oaks winner, Minnie Hauk, and Rebel’s Romance, a previous Turf winner, to finish with a comfortable lead of a length and a quarter.

In Mullins’ own words: "My assistant, David Casey, came up with the plan. I thought, ‘why not? We’re not going to try to win it. We’ll come over here to finish fifth or sixth, hopefully.’ He can be a very difficult ride. Now that we have figured out the best tactic for him, it’s turned him inside out."

A Milestone Victory for Forever Young

The Breeders’ Cup Classic was equally thrilling, with Yoshito Yahagi’s four-year-old, Forever Young, reversing the previous year’s results by outpacing Sierra Leone and Fierceness. This win marks a significant milestone not only for Yahagi but for Japanese racing as well.

Dettori’s Farewell Performance

Frankie Dettori, riding in his final Grade One races, faced a bittersweet end to his illustrious career, finishing sixth aboard Argine in the Mile. Despite his absence from the winner’s circle, Dettori’s legacy in the racing world remains unmatched.

European Dominance in Turf Races

European-trained horses showcased their prowess, with five victories across seven turf races. Notable performances included Charlie Appleby’s Notable Speech winning the Mile, and Gezora taking the Filly & Mare Turf, marking a successful day for the European contingent.

Results Recap

• Breeders’ Cup Turf Result:

  1. Ethical Diamond (Dylan Browne McMonagle)
  2. Rebel’s Romance
  3. El Cordobes

• Breeders’ Cup Classic Result:

  1. Forever Young (Ryusei Sakai)
  2. Sierra Leone
  3. Fierceness

• Breeders’ Cup Distaff Result:

  1. Scylla (Junior Alvarado)
  2. Nitrogen
  3. Regaled

• Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf Result:

  1. Gezora (Mickael Barzalona)
  2. She Feels Pretty
  3. Diamond Rain
• Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile Result:
  1. Nysos (Flavien Prat)
  2. Citizen Bull
  3. Chancer McPatrick

Looking Forward

The excitement of the Breeders’ Cup is a testament to the enduring appeal of horse racing. With unforgettable performances, strategic brilliance, and emotional farewells, the event continues to captivate fans around the globe. Can Mullins replicate this success next year, or will new challengers emerge to take the crown? The racing world is certainly eager to find out.

Stay tuned for more thrilling updates and insights as we look ahead to the next racing season!