 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
In a significant turn of events, The Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA) has announced a major change to the results of the inaugural Saudi Cup race held on 29 February 2020. Maximum Security, the original winner, has been disqualified, with the title now being awarded to Midnight Bisou.
The JCSA's Stewards Committee conducted an inquiry on 22-23 May 2024, into charges against Jason Servis, the trainer of Maximum Security. Despite being invited to attend remotely, Servis chose not to participate in the proceedings.
The inquiry found the charges against Servis to be proven, resulting in severe consequences:
1. Maximum Security's disqualification from the 2020 Saudi Cup
2. A lifetime ban for Jason Servis from racing in Saudi Arabia
Following the disqualification, the official race results now stand as:
2. Benbatl
3. Mucho Gusto
4. Tacitus
5. Gold Dream
6. Chrysoberyl
7. Mjjack
8. Magic Wand
9. Gronkowski
10. McKinzie
11. Great Scot
12. North America
13. Capezzano
A spokesperson for the JCSA stated:
"The JCSA is satisfied that, following a full disciplinary process, the charges affecting the outcome of the 2020 Saudi Cup have now been determined by the Stewards Committee following a proper investigation. The JCSA will abide by the decision of the Stewards Committee.
"The JCSA looks forward to continuing with preparations for the The Saudi Cup 2025 and the 2026 Asian Racing Conference with this matter concluded.
"We extend our congratulations to the connections of Midnight Bisou who is the only mare to win The Saudi Cup to date."
The Saudi Cup, first run in 2020, has quickly established itself as one of the world's most prestigious and lucrative horse races. With a purse of $20 million, it stands as the richest horse race globally, surpassing even the Dubai World Cup. The Saudi Cup meeting, held annually at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh, has become a key fixture in the international racing calendar, attracting top-class horses, trainers, and jockeys from around the world. The two-day meeting features both dirt and turf races, showcasing the best of Saudi Arabian racing to a global audience while also highlighting the Kingdom's growing influence in the sport.
With this matter now resolved, the JCSA is focusing on the future, particularly the upcoming Saudi Cup 2025 and the 2026 Asian Racing Conference. The organisation has stated it will not be making any further comments on this issue.
This decision marks a historic moment in the Saudi Cup's short history, with Midnight Bisou becoming not only the new 2020 champion but also the first and only mare to win the prestigious race to date.