Lambourn wins Irish Derby as Dubai Duty Free remembers its icon, Colm McLoughlin

In a race steeped in tradition, Lambourn cemented his name alongside the greats by winning the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby on Sunday, becoming only the 20th horse to complete the coveted Epsom and Irish Derby double.

Following in the hoofprints of legendary stablemates Galileo, High Chaparral, and Camelot, Lambourn is the latest champion bred from the powerhouse Ballydoyle stables in County Tipperary, Ireland, under the seasoned hand of Aidan O’Brien, a horse that has consistently battled at the highest levels of competition.

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The 8-13 favourite faced early pressure from Sir Dinadan, who set a relentless pace, and a late challenge from 28-1 stablemate Serious Contender. Yet, driven by the exceptional Ryan Moore, a four-time winner of the Longines World's Best Jockey Award, Lambourn showed resilience and strength, holding on to win by three-quarters of a length.

English contender Lazy Griff, Charlie Johnston’s Epsom Derby runner-up, finished third under Godolphin’s William Buick.

“He’s a very straightforward horse that gets the trip well,” said O’Brien who has won the Irish Derby a record 16 times, making him the most successful trainer in the race’s long history.

However, the ride required composure and strength from both horse and rider.  Off the bridle early and tested with half a mile remaining, Lambourn dug deep to showcase his class and heart.

Irish-Trained Horses Dominate

Irish-trained runners dominated the nine-race card sponsored by Dubai Duty Free, one of the world’s leading travel retail brands, underscoring the strength of Irish flat racing. Ballydoyle’s training prowess and Curragh’s conditioning were on full display throughout the day.

Lambourn remains the 5-2 favourite for the English St Leger, priced at 14-1 for the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and 16-1 for the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, hinting that the best is yet to come for O’Brien’s rising star.

Breaking the Irish sweep, English trainer Ed Dunlop saddled Skukuza to victory in the inaugural Colm McLoughlin Celebration Stakes (Listed Race).

The race was a particularly poignant moment, held in tribute to Colm McLoughlin, the former Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free, who sadly passed away in 2024.

It honoured McLoughlin’s immense contribution to the sport and the unique bond between Dubai and Ireland. The special presentation was made by his wife, Breeda McLoughlin, who was joined by members of their family.

Dubai Duty Free: A Pillar of Global Flat Racing

The event marked Dubai Duty Free’s 18th year as title sponsor of the Irish Derby, underscoring the company's deep-rooted commitment to Irish racing and its long-standing relationship with The Curragh.

Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, along with his wife Alpana Cidambi, welcomed 100 guests to the exclusive St. Leger Suite, offering spectacular views of the track, the parade ring and the winning post. Also in attendance was Salah Tahlak, Deputy Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, and Sinead El Sibai, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Dubai Duty Free alongside key international guests.

Speaking after the race, Ramesh Cidambi said, “We are proud to celebrate 18 years of sponsoring The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby. This event represents the perfect blend of sporting excellence, Irish culture and warm hospitality. Congratulations to all the winning connections and my thanks to The Curragh team for a truly exceptional day.”