HorseCenter: Saudi Cup and Rebel Stakes top picks

By Brian Zipse and Matt Shifman
Photo:

This week on HorseCenter, your hosts Brian Zipse and Matt Shifman dive into a pair of rich races on opposite ends of the world. Overseas there is a loaded field of 14 in the Grade 1 $20 million Saudi Cup, and in the U.S., the $1.25 million Rebel Stakes (G2) at Oaklawn drew 13 for a stop on the Kentucky Derby 2024 trail.

The Saudi Cup features the Breeders’ Cup Classic winner White Abarrio leading the American horses against a formidable group from Japan. The rich race attracted a full field of 14 older male dirt horses where the top five finishers will win at least $1 million.

Timberlake will be the heavy favorite in the Rebel, which is the richest Kentucky Derby prep race. The Brad Cox trainee will be making his first start in 2024 as the only Grade 1 winner in the field. The winner is eligible for 50 qualifying points, which guarantees a spot in the run for the roses.

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