On debut, Team Asia edged Team Europe in the Shergar Cup by the narrowest of margins

The newly formed Team Asia claimed 68 points to 67 for their rivals, powered by wins from Narredu and Sakai, along with a decisive contribution from Iwata

Team Asia Pulls Off the Upset in the Shergar Cup / ASCOT

NEWMARKET, Inglaterra (Special for Turf Diario).- The Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup delivered a historic day at Ascot with the debut of Team Asia, who seized victory by the slimmest of margins — just one point ahead of Team Europe — in a thrilling finish that kept the crowd on edge until the final stride.

Composed of Indian captain Suraj Narredu, Japanese riders Ryusei Sakai and Mirai Iwata, the Asian squad tallied 68 points to Europe’s 67, pushing Great Britain & Ireland (62) into third and Rest of the World (55) to fourth. This marked only the second time in Shergar Cup history that the trophy was decided by a single point, the first being in 2014 when Europe edged out the Ladies team.

Asia’s winning campaign was anchored by two standout victories: Narredu guided Fireblade (by Frankel) to victory in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers, while Sakai showcased his sprinting prowess aboard the 3-year-old Prince Of India (by Wootton Bassett). Meanwhile, Iwata’s consistency — runner-up aboard Cerulean Bay (New Bay) in the final race — proved pivotal in sealing the triumph.

“I’m absolutely thrilled,” said Narredu. “Winning on my debut, and lifting the Shergar Cup as captain, is a dream come true. This is a new team just getting started, and I believe we will be a force to reckon with in the future. We leave with two wins and points across several races; it’s been fabulous. This will be very important for my country and a huge pride for Indian racing.”

Narredu, who chose to become a jockey after watching Frankie Dettori’s legendary “Magnificent Seven” in 1996, will remain in Britain for three more weeks to ride for local stables before returning to India. “It’s always good to learn, explore, and gain experiences like this. Hopefully, I can come back every year,” he added.

While the team title went to Asia, the most coveted individual prize, the Alistair Haggis Silver Saddle, went to a familiar face: Australian Hugh Bowman. The Rest of the World rider, well-known for his partnership with champion Winx (Street Cry), previously won the award in 2007 and reclaimed it 18 years later thanks to his win aboard Vintage Clarets (Ardad) in the opener, backed by solid placings to finish with 32 points.

“It’s a huge pleasure to be back and to win such an award,” Bowman said. “Ascot is a track every jockey in the world dreams of riding and competing at. I enjoyed the afternoon, my family did too, and the best part is that every team managed to win at least one race. Congratulations to Asia, who kept adding points throughout.”

Europe was led by Swedish captain Per-Anders Graberg, who finished second in the individual standings with 26 points, while Sakai and Irishman Robbie Dolan tied for third with 25 points each.

With a festive atmosphere, packed stands, and representatives from every continent, the Shergar Cup once again proved why it’s one of the most unique events on the international calendar. This time, all eyes were on Asia — a team that has arrived to stay.