The inaugural Saudi Cup, currently the worlds richest horse race with a $20 million dollar purse, went to Maximum Security. Jockey Luis Saez appeared to be getting after Maximum Security early and was having trouble reeling in Mucho Gusto who was on the lead around the turn. Despite Mucho Gusto under Irad Ortiz drifting out into the path of Maximum Security, and then drifting in when Saez steered his mount inside, they could not hold off the game determination of the winner. Midnight Bisou, last early stayed on the rail the whole way and rallied for a close second. It was a courageous effort against males. Midnight Bisou’s rider, Mike Smith was fined and suspended for excessive use of the whip. There was a lot of whipping and drifting in the stretch run. It didn’t appear Mike did anything other riders weren’t doing and several times he waved the crop without striking the mare.
Maximum Security was said to be doubtful by trainer Jason Servis for the Dubai World Cup but it is not out of the question.
