Turf: Minnie Hauk vs. Rebel’s Romance—A Showdown That Could Enter the History Books

The Coolmore filly arrives at Del Mar with sky-high expectations, while the Godolphin runner aims for his third victoryin the race

Rebel’s Romance in His Recent New York Victory / ADAM COGLIANESE / NYRA

By Diego H. Mitagstein (Special Correspondent for Turf Diario at Del Mar, California)

DEL MAR, California — Del Mar is set to close out another edition of the Breeders’ Cup World Championships with a clash for the ages in the GI Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf (2400 m, turf). On one side stands Minnie Hauk (Frankel {GB}), Europe’s 3-year-old sensation, whose stellar résumé includes victories in the G1 Epsom Oaks, G1 Irish Oaks, and G1 Yorkshire Oaks against older rivals. On the other is Rebel’s Romance (Dubawi {Ire}), the 7-year-old Godolphin warrior who already owns wins in this race in 2022 and 2024. With five group wins this season across Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S., he now seeks to become only the third horse in history to win three Breeders’ Cup races—joining the immortal Goldikova (Anabaa) and Beholder (Henny Hughes).

The Aidan O’Brien-trained filly arrives armed with youth, freshness, and flawless preparation, having faced the continent’s best with remarkable consistency. Her narrow defeat in the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, where she was outfinished by Daryz (Sea The Stars {Ire}), only strengthened her reputation—experts see in her a rare blend of speed, stamina, and maturity for her age.

Standing across from her, Rebel’s Romance brings the confidence of experience and a record built on durability and dominance. Victorious this year in the GI Joe Hirsch Turf Classic and several other elite events abroad, the veteran will aim to make history and cement his legacy as one of the all-time Breeders’ Cup greats. For Charlie Appleby, the key will be harnessing his gelding’s consistency and natural affinity for the 1½ miles around Del Mar’s tight turns.

Adding depth to the international lineup are major European names such as Goliath (Adlerflug {Ger}), winner of the G1 Grosser Preis von Baden, and Amiloc (Postponed {Ire}), a dual Group 1 scorer in his own right.

Framed as a battle of generations and styles, the Turf promises a strategic, high-stakes contest where Minnie Hauk’syouthful brilliance will be tested by Rebel’s Romance’s seasoned power. Fans at Del Mar—and around the world—will watch every stride of the final furlong, aware that this duel could be remembered for decades.

No matter the outcome, the 2025 Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf is destined to be historic: either a horse joins the sport’s most exclusive club with a third Breeders’ Cup victory, or a rising European star conquers her elders on the grandest stage. The tension is building—and Del Mar is ready to witness a turf battle for the ages.