Sports
Will Aidan O’Brien Smash His Own World Record?

The master of Ballydoyle, Aidan O’Brien, is once again chasing history — and the betting markets are starting to take notice. After two Group 1 victories at Longchamp over the weekend, the Irish genius is edging closer to breaking his own world record for top-level wins in a single season.
The Record Chase Is On
O’Brien’s Group 1 tally now stands at 21, just eight shy of his all-time best of 28 wins set in 2017 — a season many thought would never be topped.
He’s aiming to close the gap fast this week, with two high-profile chances at Newmarket:
- Precise in the Fillies’ Mile (Friday)
- Gstaad and Italy in the Darley Dewhurst Stakes (Saturday)
Precise Leads the Charge in the Fillies’ Mile
Fresh from her Moyglare Stud Stakes victory, Precise heads to Newmarket as the 2/1 favourite. The daughter of Justify has been thriving at Ballydoyle, and her smooth acceleration in Ireland suggests she’s ready for another big strike.
O’Brien commented:
“Precise is a possible for the Fillies’ Mile. She’s been in good form since the Moyglare. We’ll see how things fall into place.”
He’s also considering Sugar Island, Composing, and Moments of Joy — but all eyes will be on Precise, who could add another Group 1 to her perfect résumé.
JackpotMoments Pick: Precise is O’Brien’s banker of the week.
Gstaad and Italy Eye the Dewhurst Stakes
O’Brien has won the Dewhurst Stakes eight times, and his two-pronged attack in 2025 could bring him a ninth.
Gstaad, the Coventry Stakes hero, has already proven himself among Europe’s best juveniles, finishing narrowly beaten in back-to-back Group 1s. Stablemate Italy adds depth, having finished runner-up in the Acomb Stakes and showing consistency all season.
O’Brien told reporters:
“Gstaad is on course for the Dewhurst, as is Italy. They both seem in good form.”
JackpotMoments Tip: Gstaad looks tailor-made for Newmarket’s Rowley Mile — and with O’Brien’s record on the line, he’ll be fully wound up.
What’s Next for Ballydoyle’s Stars?
O’Brien’s global squad is firing on all fronts:
- Diamond Necklace sparkled in the Prix Marcel Boussac, remaining unbeaten and now 8/1 favourite for the 2026 1,000 Guineas and Oaks. “She’s out of St Mark’s Basilica — she’ll be aimed at the Classics next year,” O’Brien confirmed.
- Puerto Rico, winner of the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere, could head to Del Mar for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. “He’s a big, powerful horse. He could go to the Breeders’ Cup,” O’Brien said.
- Minnie Hauk, heroic runner-up in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, is 9/4 with Unibet for the Breeders’ Cup Turf, with O’Brien hinting she could travel to Del Mar. “She ran her heart out. It’s possible she could go to the Breeders’ Cup.”
- Los Angeles, who disappointed in the Arc, remains in training — and could yet return before season’s end.
The Numbers Game: Chasing Greatness
Year | Group 1 Wins | Record |
---|---|---|
2017 | 28 | World Record |
2025 | 21 (and counting) | 8 away |
At this stage in 2017, O’Brien had 22 wins — so he’s just one behind his own legendary pace. With major opportunities still to come in France, the U.S., and Hong Kong, the record is absolutely within reach.
JackpotMoments Verdict
Few can match Aidan O’Brien’s consistency, precision, and global dominance. With Precise, Gstaad, and Puerto Rico leading his late-season charge — and the Breeders’ Cup still to come — history could be on the horizon.
Prediction:
O’Brien surpasses 28 wins before the season ends
Ballydoyle dominates the British and U.S. Group 1 scene