International contenders set for Stockholm Cup International Day at Bro Park

The Stockholm Cup International (Gr.3) has a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1937 at Ulriksdals Kapplöpningsbana, when it was known as the Ulriksdal Grand Prix. Over the years, the race has evolved into Sweden’s key event on the international racing calendar, offering local and international competitors an equal shot at glory on Bro Park’s turf track.

Dennis Madsen, Head of Racing at Svensk Galopp, expressed his excitement about the strong international presence at this year’s event:

"Once again, we have a highly competitive and international field for the Stockholm Cup International (Gr.3)," Madsen said. "We are delighted to see the continued support from British trainer Archie Watson, who brings Outbox back for his fourth appearance in the race. After finishing second in the last three runnings, it would be wonderful to see him clinch the win this year."

Germany is also strongly represented with Best of Lips, trained by Andreas Suborics. "Best of Lips comes to us in good form, having finished third to Al Riffa and Narrativo in the Grosser Preis von Berlin (Gr.1) just last month. It will be interesting to see how his form translates in this Scandinavian test," Madsen added.

Among the Scandinavian runners, the line-up is notably impressive. The field includes Hard One To Please, the Stockholm Cup champion from 2022, as well as Greenland, winner of this year’s Scandinavian Open Championship (Gr.3) and the Swedish-bred Seneschal. Rising stars such as Ami De Vega, the 2023 Norwegian Derby victor, fellow four-year-old Mozart and the exciting three-year-old Mendel’s Rock, runner-up in the Swedish Derby, are also possible key contenders.

The undercard promises to be equally exciting, with strong international representation. Archie Watson's yard will be well-represented, fielding four additional runners across the day’s races, including Action Point in the Tryckservice Bro Park Sprint Championship (L).

In the Lanwades Stud Stakes (L), Archie Watson saddles Take A Pull, while Newmarket-based trainer Jane Chapple-Hyam returns to Sweden with Glor Tire, a recent acquisition from Jim Bolger’s stable.

Looking ahead, Dennis Madsen expressed his desire to see more international entries in the Tattersalls Nickes Minneslöpning (L), a key dirt race on the card. A good performance here opens doors to greater challenges across Europe, making it a true launching pad for international racing success.

“We believe this race is the ideal platform for European trainers to test their horses on dirt with a view to American racing. It’s a missed opportunity that more don’t take advantage of it as a precursor to potential dirt campaigns in the U.S.,” Madsen remarked.

Madsen is highly enthusiastic about the day, stating: "We’re eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exceptional race day—the highlight of the year in Swedish racing."