El Kodigo Training in Saudi Arabia; Possible February Return

El Kodigo Bypasses Saudi Cup Meeting, Continues Preparation for Return

El Kodigo Training Over Riyadh Dirt Ahead of Competitive Return / JCSA

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia.— When the nomination lists for the Saudi Cup (G1) and its formidable undercard were released a few days ago, it was highly striking that the Argentine champion El Kodigo was not entered in any of them. The colt has been based here since a disappointing run in the 2025 edition of the world's richest race.

Questions quickly arose regarding his current status, with many even suggesting that an injury had sidelined him for the short term. However, Argentine veterinarian Gustavo Bayón cleared up any doubts about the son of Equal Stripes, who dazzled South American racing during his notable campaigns in Argentina and Uruguay.

"Fortunately, he is doing well. During the off-season, we took advantage of the break to let him rest and recover from the effort of the Saudi Cup. Currently, he is galloping to get back into rhythm and adjust his weight. The plan is for him to return to action in February," Bayón told Turf Diario.

Bred by Haras Juan Antonio, whose colors he defended throughout his career, El Kodigo captured a string of Group 1titles in Argentina, including the Polla de Potrillos (G1), República Argentina (G1), General San Martín (G1), and Copa de Oro (G1). He also secured wins in the Clásico General Belgrano (G2) and Vicente L. Casares (G2), while finishing a close second in the Gran Premio Nacional (G1), the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1), and the Clásico Comparación (G2).

In Maroñas, Uruguay, the bay formerly trained by Roberto Pellegatta and Juan Saldivia was the hero of the 2025 Gran Premio José Pedro Ramírez (G1), winning with absolute ease. As a reminder, in February 2025, he finished unplaced in the Saudi Cup after arriving in the city just a couple of weeks prior to the event.

If the plan holds and the champion’s return occurs next month, his form will be closely watched, as the Dubai World Cup (G1) at Meydan (UAE) looms on the calendar for late March.

The most important takeaway, regardless of his next steps, is that the star El Kodigo continues to sharpen his tools in the mornings, focusing on his return to the ring. As long as he remains healthy, his class will always be present to allow him to shine once more.