O’Brien Eyes Historic 12th Epsom Derby Win: Ballydoyle Dominance Continues!

Aidan O’Brien is on the brink of an unprecedented 12th Epsom Derby victory, with Benvenuto Cellini leading a powerful Ballydoyle contingent!

The stage is set for a historic Saturday as Aidan O’Brien aims for his 12th Epsom Derby win, and an astonishing fourth consecutive triumph in British racing’s prestigious Blue Riband event. The momentum is undeniable.

Horse	Trainer	Odds	Key Race
Benvenuto Cellini	Aidan O’Brien	7/4	Chester Vase Winner
Pierre Bonnard	Aidan O’Brien	N/A	Ballydoyle Entry
James J Braddock	Joseph O’Brien	N/A	Leopardstown Trial Winner
Item	Andrew Balding	N/A	Unbeaten Dante Winner
Maltese Cross	N/A	N/A	Lingfield Trial Winner

Ballydoyle’s Dominance: A Dynasty in the Making

Benvenuto Cellini stands as the ante-post favourite, spearheading a formidable seven-strong entry from Ballydoyle after Monday’s latest acceptance stage for the 247th Derby. Other notable contenders from the septet include Pierre Bonnard and Causeway, with final declarations due on Wednesday.

Aidan O’Brien’s son, Joseph O’Brien, also presents a strong Irish challenge with James J Braddock, the victor of the Leopardstown Trial. However, fresh off a historic clean sweep at Sunday’s French Derby in Chantilly, the momentum is firmly with the Ballydoyle stable, signaling a powerful run.

Benvenuto Cellini is currently a 7/4 shot to claim the prize at Epsom, with Pierre Bonnard considered a potent second-string. O’Brien has dominated the Derby like no other, showcasing an unparalleled mastery of the race.

Chasing History: O’Brien’s Unprecedented Derby Streak

Last year, Lambourn secured a second-string victory under Wayne Lordan, following wins by Auguste Rodin (2023) and City Of Troy (2024). This achievement equaled O’Brien’s previous feat of saddling a Derby hat-trick between 2012 and 2014 with Camelot, Ruler Of The World, and Australia. Now, the opportunity arises to surpass even that remarkable record.

The unbeaten Dante winner, Item, is poised to lead the home team, with jockey Colin Keane once again partnering with trainer Andrew Balding for Juddmonte’s son of Frankel. Another cross-channel hopeful is the Lingfield Trial winner, Maltese Cross.

“We’re happy with the horses so far, but these races are so competitive and so hard to win. First of all, you are hoping you get there and then just hope they run good races.” – Aidan O’Brien

O’Brien’s recent tactical brilliance at the Prix Du Jockey Club highlights the significant impact his team’s depth could have once again. Action and Christmas Day, who placed second and third in the Dante, are potential starters, as is Endorsement, a consistent performer in several Trial races. Proposition was runner-up to Benvenuto Cellini in last month’s Chester Vase.

Beyond the Derby: Oaks and Coronation Cup Prospects

Aidan O’Brien’s influence extends beyond the Derby, as he also holds a strong hand in Friday’s Epsom Oaks, eyeing an 11th victory. The choice between Amelia Earhart and Precise will present Ryan Moore with a coveted big-race decision.

In Saturday’s Coronation Cup, Ryan Moore is expected to partner with Jan Bruegel over last year’s Derby hero, Lambourn. Jan Bruegel famously triumphed over Calandagan in last year’s race, marking the French star’s last defeat. Since then, Calandagan has ascended to become the world’s highest-rated racehorse, securing a fifth consecutive Group One success in Dubai in March.

Key Takeaways:

• Aidan O’Brien is poised for a record 12th Epsom Derby win and a fourth consecutive victory.
• Benvenuto Cellini leads Ballydoyle’s seven-strong entry, with Pierre Bonnard as a strong second option.
• Joseph O’Brien’s James J Braddock offers another Irish challenge.
• Item, the unbeaten Dante winner, heads the local contenders.
• O’Brien also has strong prospects in the Epsom Oaks with Amelia Earhart and Precise.
• The Coronation Cup features a high-stakes rematch between Jan Bruegel and Calandagan.