The first confirmed spot for the 2023 Breeders’ Cup has gone to a horse that had never won a stakes race prior to the weekend.

A revelation on the step up to the staying ranks in the Red Sea Turf H. (G3) on Saudi Cup Day, Japan’s Stay Foolish claimed an even bigger prize by upstaging 1-5 favorite Manobo in Saturday’s $1 million Dubai Gold Cup (G2) at Meydan.

The rich Saudi Cup program includes three turf stakes, all upgraded to international Group 3 status for Saturday. The 1351 Turf Sprint caters to the speed brigade, the Neom Turf Cup suits the middle-distance types, and the Red Sea Turf H. is a prize for stayers.