Labrado seeks the major victory that has eluded him in the Gran Premio Félix de Alzaga Unzué

The three-time sprint champion will try to capture the only straight-course G1 title that has so far eluded him

Labrado winning on the San Isidro turf, as he has so many times before / JUAN I. BOZZELLO

There is only one straight-course G1 that has so far eluded the ultra-competitive Labrado (Le Blues): the Gran Premio Félix de Alzaga Unzué (G1-1000m), the ultimate test for sprinters and a traditional companion to the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1) on the most important day of the year at the Hipódromo de San Isidro.

This Saturday, the Stud Don Ariel standard-bearer will try to settle that score—and, in the process, potentially seal an unprecedented fourth consecutive Argentine Champion Sprinter title, a remarkable and historic achievement.

It will be the fourth attempt in the race for the dark bay campaigned by the Bonetto family, once again partnered by Wilson Moreyra, and breaking from stall 21. In 2023, Labrado burst through the gates and never got a chance to show his true form; in the two editions that followed, he finished third both times behind the now-retired Arellano (Angiolo).

There is no question about his current form. He exits a victory in the Gran Premio Suipacha (G1), contested over the same course and distance he will face again here. Will the fourth time be the charm for the star sprinter?

Much of the public will undoubtedly be pulling for Labrado, a horse who has won the hearts of fans, but he will have to contend with no fewer than 23 rivals eager to spoil the party.

Among them is the ever-dangerous Le Cornette, hero of the Gran Premio Estrellas Sprint (G1)—where he defeated Labrado—as well as the Clásico Paraguay (G3). After a misstep in the Cyllene (G2), he bounced back with runner-up finishes in both the Suipacha (G1) and the Maipú (G1).

It was in the latter where El Epecuén (Il Campione) announced himself on the biggest stage, making his straight-course debut and suggesting there is much more to come. The Unzué represents another opportunity to move forward.

Brazil sends the extremely dangerous Lendario Brujo (Comandante Dodge), whose G1 résumé commands respect and who will be guided by the ever-reliable João Moreira. Add to that proven performers such as El Resero Con Capa(Angiolo), Bailarín de Venecia (Angiolo), and the talented filly La Bella Otero (Daddy Long Legs), and the stage is set for a fiercely competitive renewal.

All eyes will be on Labrado. One last missing jewel remains—and Saturday may finally provide the answer.