Charlatan's next start likely in $20 million Saudi Cup

ARCADIA, Calif. - Charlatan, a convincing winner of the Grade 1 Malibu Stakes at Santa Anita on Dec. 26, is expected to have his next start in the $20 million Saudi Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Feb. 20.

Trainer Bob Baffert said Sunday that the timing of the Saudi Cup at 1 1/8 miles, compared to the Grade 1 Pegasus World Cup Invitational at Gulfstream Park on Jan. 23, was a deciding factor.

“He’ll go to Saudi,” Baffert said. “The Pegasus is coming back a little quick. I’ve got a week to change my mind.”

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Owned by a partnership that includes SF Racing, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables, and Stonestreet Stables, Charlatan has crossed the wire first in all four of his starts, but was disqualified from an easy win in the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby at Oaklawn Park last May because of a medication violation.

A 4-year-old colt by Speightstown, Charlatan did not race again in 2020 after the Arkansas Derby until the Malibu Stakes, a layoff caused by an ankle injury. In the $300,500 Malibu Stakes, run at seven furlongs for 3-year-olds, Charlatan stalked the pace before cruising to an attractive win by 4 1/2 lengths, finishing in a quick time of 1:21.50.

On Saturday at Santa Anita, Charlatan worked a half-mile in 49.80 seconds, his first major exercise since the Malibu Stakes.

“It was easy,” Baffert said. “He was moving well.”