The 2025 Irish Derby Festival is fast approaching, and fans don’t have to wait long to see the action unfold at the Curragh, County Kildare. With the highly anticipated Irish Derby on the horizon – one of the most prestigious flat races in the horseracing calendar, outside of the Epsom Derby – it’s a good time to take a look back at the past five editions of the exciting race.
The past renewals of the Irish Derby have seen some fantastic emerging talent, dominant performances, and, unsurprisingly, the enduring influence of trainer Aidan O’Brien.
Let’s take a close look at the Irish Derby races from 2020 to 2024, which have shocked and impressed fans, enthusiasts, and those who enjoy some thoroughbred wagering with a horse racing bet.
2024: Los Angeles claims the crown
Last year’s 2024 renewal saw Aidan O’Brien-trained horse, Los Angeles, claim victory, ridden by Ryan Moore.
The colt took the lead over a furlong out and held off late challenges to finish three-quarters of a length clear of the runner-up, Sunway. This also gave trainer Aidan O’Brien his record-extending 16th victory in the Irish Derby.
2023: Auguste Rodin’s dominant display
Auguste Rodin, another O’Brien-trained colt, delivered a commanding performance in the 2023 race. The 4-11 favourite stole glory after tracking the leaders and taking the lead two and a half furlongs from home. He maintained his advantage to win by one and a half lengths.
Stablemate Adelaide River secured second place, which completed a one-two finish for O’Brien.
2022: Westover’s emphatic victory
In 2022, Westover, trained by Ralph Beckett and ridden by Colin Keane, dominated the track to secure first place.
The colt took the lead two and a half furlongs out and stretched clear to win the race by a commanding seven lengths. Piz Badile finished second, with French Claim coming in third.
2021: Hurricane Lane’s resilience
Charlie Appleby-trained horse, Hurricane Lane, showcased his stamina and determination in the 2021 renewal.
After a steady start, he made headway to snatch the lead and hold off challenges to secure his victory. This win also marked a significant achievement for Appleby and jockey William Buick.
2020: Santiago’s strategic success
In 2020, Santiago, under the guidance of Aidan O’Brien, demonstrated some clever tactical prowess on the Curragh Racecourse.
The colt was restrained by rider Ryan Moore in the early stages of the race, but he grabbed the lead in the final furlong and maintained his position to win by nearly three lengths. This highlighted O’Brien’s continued success in the Irish Derby, securing him is 14th victory.
Looking ahead to 2025
If the recent editions of the Irish Derby have shown anything, it’s that the Festival has a consistent reputation for impressive performances, shocking twists, and the emergence of future stars in the sport.
As we anticipate the 2025 race, attention turns to potential contenders and whether Aidan O’Brien will continue his remarkable record at the Curragh come June 27th-29th.
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As you can see, there’s a reason this prestigious race is a key highlight in the flat racing calendar. Each year, the Irish Derby race and Festival offer a platform for three-year-old colts to showcase their abilities on an international stage.
With such a rich history and a reputation for producing champions, we can easily expect some fantastic action and displays of pure talent in the upcoming 2025 renewal.
