Riyadh: French trainer Jerome Reynier is heading to the Saudi Cup 2026, the world's richest horse racing event with total prize money of $39.6 million, leading a strong due of standout horses. Leading his team is Lazzat from France, running in the G2 1351m Turf Sprint. The second horse, Facteur Cheval from Ireland, will compete in the G1 Neom Turf.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Reynier aims to improve on his previous Saudi Cup performance, having finished 12th in the 2022 Saudi Derby with horse Jacinda.
Lazzat, racing under the Wathnan Racing banner, boasts an impressive record of 8 wins in 14 starts. His most recent race was at Ascot in October, where he narrowly finished second in the British Champions Sprint Stakes (Group 1). He has also captured major Class 1 titles, including the Prix Maurice de Gheest (1300m) and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot.
Reynier confirmed that Lazzat, who will be ridden by James Doyle, is fully prepared for the race, noting that the 1351-meter distance suits him perfectly. Lazzat adapts well to different tracks and surfaces, Reynier said, adding that the starting draw will play a key role in the outcome.