Ascoli Piceno Accepts Saudi Invitation, Set to Partner Lemaire for 1351m Turf Sprint

Highly regarded Japanese filly Ascoli Piceno is set to make her 2025 debut on the international stage after accepting an invitation to the GII 1351m Turf Sprint at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Saudi Arabia. The race, scheduled for February 22, will see the Christophe Lemaire-ridden four-year-old take on a competitive field on the unique Saudi turf. Following her overseas campaign, she will return to Japan to target the prestigious G1 Victoria Mile at Tokyo Racecourse on May 18.

Trained by Kuroiwa, Ascoli Piceno has been resting since her Australian stint in November, where she finished 12th in the Golden Eagle. Speaking about her preparation, Kuroiwa said, “We are aiming for the Victoria Mile this spring, and Saudi Arabia fits perfectly into our plans. The 1351m distance is a busy one, but the dry track in Riyadh should work to her advantage.”

This campaign reflects the ambitious nature of her connections, as the Victoria Mile is one of Japan’s marquee races for fillies and mares, offering a chance to solidify her status as an elite performer.

Strong Japanese Contingent for Saudi Cup Meeting

Ascoli Piceno is just one of several Japanese contenders heading to Saudi Arabia for the lucrative Saudi Cup meeting. The roster includes:

FOREVER YOUNG (Saudi Cup)

SHIN EMPEROR (Neom Turf Cup)

WIN MARVEL and BYZANTINE DREAM (Red Sea Turf Handicap)

CHIKAPPA, JASPER KRONE, and REMAKE (Dirt Sprint)

MYRIAD LOVE and HAPPY MAN (Saudi Derby)

This strong lineup highlights Japan’s continued dominance on the global racing stage, following recent successes in international racing.