Gstaad won the Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh by three lengths on May 23, 2026, extending the horse’s impressive unbeaten streak in the race to first place or second in nine career starts [1, 2]. The colt, ridden by Ryan Moore and trained by Aidan O'Brien, took the lead in the final stages of the race to beat Distant Storm and Pacific Avenue, who finished second and third respectively [1, 2].
Gstaad was the pre-race favorite, although sources vary on the odds: some listed 4-11 while others quoted $7 [1, 2]. During the race, Gstaad tracked early leaders Alparslan and Power Blue before surging ahead in the last quarter mile, showcasing a powerful stride and comfort leading on the wing [1, 2]. Moore described the performance: "He had a nice draw [eight] - he was sat out there on the wing, but he was comfortable. Nothing was able to get in his way and we kept it very uncomplicated... He’s an impressive horse. He did deserve that, he has been second a few times and has never run a bad race" [1].
This victory marked either the 12th or 13th Irish 2,000 Guineas win for trainer Aidan O'Brien, depending on the source [1, 2]. Gstaad has a consistent record at top level racing, having never finished outside the first two in nine starts, with all four defeats coming at Group 1 races [2]. Previously, Gstaad won the 2025 Group 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf at Del Mar and placed second in the Group 1 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on May 2, 2026, behind Bow Echo [2].
Ryan Moore added that Gstaad "was very straightforward" during the race. "We didn't go that quick early, but he began very quickly. Once he did that, he was impressive... Roll on to Ascot, I'd say," Moore said, indicating future targets after the Curragh victory [2].
The Irish 2,000 Guineas carried prize money of €500,000 (S$743,000) [2]. Gstaad’s trajectory since debut in May 2025 has been upward, with key wins including the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and multiple Group 1 placings [2].
Gstaad and his connections are likely to next focus on the Royal Ascot meeting later this year, where Moore hinted the colt could continue his progress [2].
