John Velazquez, the three-time Kentucky Derby-winning jockey and one of the most respected figures in American horse racing, is eagerly anticipating his next challenge in the Diriyah International Jockeys’ Challenge. Set to take place at Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Racecourse on February 21, the prestigious four-race series will see Velazquez take on 13 of the world’s top riders.
The Hall of Fame jockey is no stranger to Saudi Arabia, having first competed there nearly three decades ago. Reflecting on his long association with the country, Velazquez expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to return. “I have been coming to Saudi Arabia since 1998 and have won some of the nice races over there,” said the 53-year-old. “I am very honoured to be part of the event, and it is nice to be invited to take on jockeys from all over the world.”
Saudi Arabia’s racing scene has seen remarkable growth in recent years, particularly with the advent of the Saudi Cup meeting and the development of King Abdulaziz Racecourse. Velazquez acknowledged these advancements, noting the significant progress made since his first visit. “It has changed a lot over the years, and I am looking forward to coming back and seeing how it has developed again,” he said. “They have done an incredible amount for horse racing, and they should be proud of what they have achieved.”
With an extraordinary career tally of over 6,700 wins, including 21 Breeders’ Cup victories, Velazquez is well-versed in competing against the best. While he has previously faced Belgian star Christophe Soumillon, this event will mark his first time riding against James McDonald, who was named the Longines World’s Best Jockey in December. “I have ridden against the likes of Christophe before but not James, so I am looking forward to that,” Velazquez remarked.
Velazquez was part of the 2024 Saudi Cup meeting, where his best finish came aboard MY FRANKEL in the International Handicap, securing second place. Looking ahead to this year’s event, he hopes to add more rides to his schedule beyond the Jockeys’ Challenge. “I hope to pick up a couple of extra rides on the Saturday – I think I might have one in one of the sprint races and maybe one in the Saudi Cup too – but I am not sure yet. Fingers crossed!”
One likely ride for Velazquez is STRAIGHT NO CHASER, trained by Dan Blacker, in the Riyadh Dirt Sprint presented by Saudi National Bank. The pair previously teamed up for victory in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar last November, and they will be looking to replicate that success in Riyadh.
With his vast experience and proven ability on the big stage, Velazquez’s presence at the Diriyah International Jockeys’ Challenge adds an extra layer of excitement to what promises to be a world-class competition.
