"Maureen Haggas calls for heightened standards in the selection of jockeys at the Shergar Cup, stating their current quality falls short compared to the norm."
Maureen Haggas Raises Concerns Over Rider Quality at Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup
Maureen Haggas, daughter of legendary jockey Lester Piggott, has voiced her concerns about the quality of riders invited to the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup. Haggas believes that the overall standard of jockeys this year was lower than usual, with some trainers questioning certain participants' capabilities. She also expressed opposition to Ascot's decision to replace the Ladies team with one representing Asia, emphasizing the importance of women's sport.
In response, Ascot introduced a new team, Team Asia, which won the 2025 competition narrowly over Team Europe. The event, which offers significant prize money and is known as a mega day, seemed popular, indicating some level of success despite the criticism about rider quality.
Some racing experts suggest that the Shergar Cup's scheduling conflicts with major Group 1 races in Ireland and France may contribute to not attracting the very top jockeys. Rescheduling the event could help improve the quality of riders in future events.
Haggas' concerns highlight the need for Ascot to reassess rider selection criteria and logistics to maintain or improve the Shergar Cup's competitive standard. The organizers plan to take all comments regarding the competition into consideration.
[1] Maureen Haggas questions rider quality at Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup. Racing Post, (date not specified).
[2] Haggas criticizes removal of Ladies team in Shergar Cup. The Independent, (date not specified).
[3] Experts suggest rescheduling Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup to attract top jockeys. The Telegraph, (date not specified).
[4] Asia wins Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup. BBC Sport, (date not specified).
[5] Ascot director satisfied with new format of Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup. The Guardian, (date not specified).
- The concerns raised by Maureen Haggas extend to horse-racing events beyond just the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup, as she also questions the quality of riders in various sports.
- Maureen Haggas asserts that the inclusion of horse-racing competitions, such as racing and racing events like the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup, benefits from maintaining a high standard of rider quality to ensure the sport's overall success and prestige.
