Mickael Barzalona still smiles at the memory. The reigning champion of the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship paused recently as he recalled the moment he sealed the title last year at Happy Valley — a night coloured by cheers, handshakes and that unmistakable surge of pride that comes only when a season’s work crystallises into something unforgettable. For all his triumphs in 2025, he remains visibly moved by the emotion that wrapped around his IJC success.
It has been a remarkable year for Barzalona, who secured maiden victories in the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (2400m), G1 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2392m) and G1 Japan Cup (2400m). He also added further wins at the Breeders’ Cup and the G1 Champion Stakes (2000m). Yet the scenes surrounding the 2024 edition of the LONGINES International Jockeys’ Championship — his sixth attempt at the Happy Valley showpiece — continue to stand out.
“It’s a wonderful memory and it’s always a great line-up of jockeys who are there because they have enjoyed great success during their domestic seasons and internationally. So, it’s a wonderful way to round off the year and I’ve always been very excited to take part,” he said.
Last year, Barzalona opened and closed the night with a pair of contrasting victories. First came the dramatic late surge aboard Sergeant Pepper, snatching the lead in the last stride to edge out William Buick. Then came the commanding ride on the Pierre Ng-trained Aurora Lady, where he stretched clear in the final leg and sealed the championship with authority.
“Starting with a winner was huge,” Barzalona said. “Having ridden in it a few times before, I knew how tough it would be, and even though a couple of my rides had an obvious chance, there’s always the possibility of getting a bad trip or making the wrong choice at a crucial moment. So, putting maximum points on the board first up was a big help.”
“Pierre gave me a lot of confidence going out before the final leg and I knew that if I finished in the first three I would probably be the winner. It was wonderful to do it.”
Now 34, Barzalona has evolved into one of the sport’s most balanced competitors. His calm temperament — unchanged by victories or setbacks — has underpinned outstanding rides across many of the world’s greatest races. His work with the Aga Khan Studs-owned Calandagan, who currently sits atop the LONGINES World’s Best Racehorse Rankings, has been another highlight, as was his narrow Arc triumph aboard Daryz.
“Honestly, this year could not have gone any better,” he said. “When you look back and think about winning the Arc, the King George, the Champion Stakes and the Japan Cup, it’s been magical.”
As 2025 winds down, Hong Kong again prepares to host some of the sport’s biggest names. Barzalona, hungry to add another flourish to his dream season, knows the LONGINES IJC will demand the very best.
“Winning once gives you a taste for it and if anything, this year’s line-up is even stronger, with Christophe Lemaire, James McDonald, William Buick and Ryan Moore. I find it incredible that The Hong Kong Jockey Club manages to bring so many of the world’s best together for one night.”
Happy Valley will glow under the lights on Wednesday, 10 December. And after a year of remarkable achievements, Barzalona arrives not just as a participant — but as one of the brightest stars on display.
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