At the Derby Festival held on Friday, June 6th at Epsom Downs, Aidan O’Brien celebrated a remarkable milestone as Jan Brueghel clinched victory in the Coronation Cup, bringing the legendary trainer’s Group One win tally at this prestigious event to 30. Ridden with precision by Ryan Moore, the colt showed his grit and stamina in the final quarter mile, fending off a determined late challenge from the French-trained Calandagan.
Moore’s tactical ride proved crucial, as he positioned Jan Brueghel perfectly before urging him forward at the right moment. The colt responded with determination, holding his ground as the favourite loomed in the final furlong. This marked O’Brien’s tenth win in the Coronation Cup, matching his impressive tally in both the Derby and the Oaks at Epsom.
O’Brien expressed satisfaction with the performance, highlighting the horse’s resilience and the intelligent ride by Moore. He noted the progress Jan Brueghel had made since his seasonal return, acknowledging that their early season plans had shifted due to other contenders but were pleased with the outcome. The emphasis on ensuring a strongly run race paid off, with the pace allowing Jan Brueghel to settle into a comfortable rhythm and finish strongly.
Despite falling just short, Calandagan impressed with a gallant effort. Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard praised his horse’s performance, acknowledging the winner’s toughness and the impact of running on unfamiliar ground. Jockey Mickael Barzalona commented on the colt’s unique rhythm and how he tried to make the most of his position in the home stretch, but ultimately, the winner simply had more to give at the finish.
In an unexpected twist later in the day, the £100,000 Nifty Fifty Handicap over a mile and a quarter produced one of the festival’s biggest surprises. Longshot Ecureuil Secret, sent off at 28-1, stormed to an emphatic four-length victory for trainer Richard Fahey and jockey Oisin Orr. Fahey shared his delight after the race, noting the horse’s development with age and indicating a possible tilt at the Wolferton Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Runner-up Akecheta also ran with credit. Trainer Kevin Coleman, while pleased with the placing, admitted to a hint of disappointment. With past near-misses at Epsom, he had hoped this time would be different but still regarded the run as a strong effort. A Royal Ascot mile handicap could still be on the radar, although no decisions have been finalized.
The 2025 Derby Festival once again delivered a memorable day of elite flat racing, showcasing the brilliance of seasoned stars and the emergence of future contenders on one of racing’s most iconic stages.
