Leopardstown thriller as Auguste Rodin goes down fighting.
Economics Triumphs in Thrilling Irish Champion Stakes Duel, Outbattles Auguste Rodin at Leopardstown
In a race that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Economics emerged victorious in the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, showcasing raw power and grit to fend off the fierce challenge of Auguste Rodin. Trained by the ever-impressive William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, Economics delivered an exhilarating performance to capture his first Group One title, confirming his ascent into racing’s elite.
The 7-4 favourite went into the race with growing expectations, having demolished the field in the Dante Stakes at York earlier in the season and following up with a decisive win in the Prix Guillaume d'Ornano at Deauville. Fans and pundits alike were eager to see if the promising colt could step up to the Group One level, and the answer was an emphatic yes.
Drawn widest of all, Marquand approached the race with patience and precision, an attitude reflective of the confidence that has come to define this jockey-horse partnership. The son of Frankel travelled smoothly throughout the race, staying just behind the leaders and never looking in any hurry. Marquand bided his time, waiting for the perfect moment to unleash the powerful chestnut.
The race was set against a backdrop of high drama, with Luxembourg, last year’s defending champion, taking command early and leading the charge. For much of the race, it appeared as though the Aidan O’Brien-trained Luxembourg might be set to defend his crown. However, as the runners straightened for home, Marquand edged Economics ever closer to the front, steadily improving his position with every stride.
As the field entered the final two furlongs, the intensity cranked up, and the focus shifted from Luxembourg to his stablemate, Auguste Rodin, who mounted a fierce challenge of his own. The crowd held its collective breath as the two titans, Economics and Auguste Rodin, locked horns in a battle of strength, determination, and stamina. The atmosphere was electric as the two champions raced neck-and-neck down the home stretch, neither willing to give an inch.
For a moment, it looked as though Auguste Rodin, also trained by O’Brien, might have the upper hand. His acceleration was breathtaking, and the defending champion Luxembourg, now fading, could do nothing to keep pace. But Economics, with his imposing frame and boundless energy, was not to be denied. Pushed to the limit by Marquand, the Haggas-trained colt dug deep, sticking his white nose in front just as they crossed the line.
The final result was a dramatic neck victory for Economics—a moment of triumph that solidified his reputation as one of the most promising colts in the racing world. His progression through the ranks, from dominating in the Group Two and Three circuits to claiming his first Group One title, marks him as a true force to be reckoned with in upcoming seasons.
After the race, a jubilant Tom Marquand reflected on the win, highlighting the importance of timing and patience. "I knew we had the ability, but it was a question of when to make our move. The way he responded was just incredible. Economics has such a big heart—when he needs to find that little bit extra, he always does. We faced a tough challenge from Auguste Rodin, but this horse just doesn’t know when to quit."
For William Haggas, the victory was another feather in his cap, reinforcing his reputation as one of the sport’s finest trainers. "He’s a special horse," Haggas said, clearly elated. "This is a big win for the team and for Economics. He has shown he belongs at this level, and we couldn’t be prouder of him."
The thrilling duel between Economics and Auguste Rodin is sure to be remembered as one of the defining moments of the season. O’Brien, gracious in defeat, praised both horses for their fighting spirit. "Auguste Rodin ran a fantastic race, and we’re proud of him. But Economics was superb today, and credit to Tom and William—they were the better team on the day."
As for the future, Economics is now firmly in the conversation for more top-tier races, with fans eagerly awaiting his next appearance. Whether at Ascot, France, or beyond, it’s clear that this colt’s journey is only just beginning. For now, though, his thrilling Irish Champion Stakes victory will go down as a career-defining moment, etching his name into racing history.
This was racing at its finest—two highly talented horses going head-to-head, neither willing to back down. Economics has proven himself not only as a dominant force but as a horse with immense heart and resilience. Tom Marquand’s ride was tactically flawless, and William Haggas’s training expertise continues to shine through. The thrilling, neck-and-neck battle with Auguste Rodin will linger in the memory for a long time. It’s a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of horse racing that a new champion can rise, just when the stakes are highest.
