With over a decade of horse racing expertise, US Racing delivers data-driven insights and betting analysis designed to sharpen your Saudi Cup betting strategy, especially when it comes to navigating short-priced favorites and identifying real value in international championship fields.
With the 2026 Saudi Cup at King Abdulaziz Racecourse fast approaching, horseplayers around the world are preparing for one of the richest and most competitive dirt races of the year. The 1800-meter showdown features a deep 14-horse field competing for a staggering $20 million purse.
This year’s edition brings together international champions, Breeders’ Cup winners, and rising American stars, creating one of the most intriguing betting boards of the global racing season.
The defending champion and current 7-5 favorite is Forever Young, trained by Yoshito Yahagi and ridden by Ryusei Sakai.
Forever Young enters off elite-level performances, including a victory in the Breeders’ Cup Classic and a strong Kentucky Derby showing. He has proven he can travel, handle top competition, and perform on dirt at this distance.
Drawing post position 6, he lands in an ideal tactical spot, allowing flexibility without risking early traffic or being forced wide. His consistent speed figures and championship credentials make him the most likely winner on paper.
At 7-5, however, bettors must decide whether the short price offers enough value in a 14-horse international field.
Second choice on the board is Nysos at 4-1, trained by Hall of Famer Bob Baffert and ridden by Flavien Prat.
Nysos exits strong recent form, including a narrow victory over stablemate Nevada Beach, and previously captured the Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile. His tactical speed and ability to rate just off the pace make him a dangerous opponent.
Breaking from post 12, he will need to secure a position early, but the outside draw could also allow a clean trip free from early congestion.
At 4-1, Nysos presents the most logical alternative to the favorite and could attract strong betting support as race day approaches.
Another serious threat from the Baffert barn is Nevada Beach at 5-1, with Irad Ortiz Jr. in the saddle.
Breaking from post 7, Nevada Beach owns consistent dirt credentials and was narrowly defeated by Nysos in his most recent start. He has shown the ability to sustain a long drive through the stretch and fits well at the 1800-meter distance.
With his grinding style and tactical positioning, he remains a legitimate win candidate and a strong inclusion in Exacta and Trifecta wagers.
Trained by Brad Cox and ridden by Junior Alvarado, Bishops Bay enters at 6-1 and brings sharp current form into the race.
Chasing multiple consecutive victories, he has demonstrated consistency and stamina, and his post position 9 offers a balanced trip scenario. He may not have the same global résumé as the top two, but his recent performances make him a serious factor in the outcome.
He profiles especially well for second or third in exotic wagers.
Every Saudi Cup features at least one horse capable of outrunning long odds.
Sunrise Zipangu sits at 40-1 and drew the rail. While the inside post can be tricky at this distance, he has shown flashes of competitiveness at high levels, including strong efforts against elite competition.
At this price, he becomes attractive for deeper exotic tickets such as Trifectas and Superfectas, where a longshot hitting the frame can dramatically increase payouts.
With post positions finalized and betting markets open, attention now turns to late money and potential line movement. International wagering pools can shift quickly, especially in championship races featuring Japanese and American stars.
If heavy support continues for Forever Young, his price could tighten further. Meanwhile, Nysos and Bishops Bay may present increasing value if public money heavily favors the defending champion.
Monitoring late odds fluctuations will be critical for maximizing betting efficiency.
Exacta:
Trifecta:
With Forever Young likely to attract the majority of win wagers, structuring tickets around Nysos on top can provide stronger value while still respecting the favorite’s class. Bishops Bay and Nevada Beach offer depth for second and third positions, creating balanced exotic combinations.
Post position will play a meaningful role at 1800 meters on dirt.
With elite horses spread across the gate, trip dynamics could ultimately determine the outcome of the 2026 Saudi Cup.
The writing team at US Racing is comprised of both full-time and part-time contributors with expertise in various aspects of the Sport of Kings.
