Japanese superstar Equinox (Jpn) (Kitasan Black {Jpn}) has topped the rankings at 129 in the ninth edition of the 2023 World's Best Racehorse rankings followed closely by Arc winner Ace Impact (Ire) (Cracksman {GB}) and Mostahdaf (Ire) (Frankel {GB}), who are tied for second with a rating of 128 each.
Noteworthy movement in the rankings include dominant G1 Queen Elizabeth II S. victor Big Rock (Fr) (Rock of Gibraltar {Ire}), now the co-fourth highest along with Hukum (Ire) (Sea the Stars {Ire}). The Breeders' Cup had its impact on the latest ranking shake-up as well with Auguste Rodin (Ire) (Deep Impact {Jpn}) maintaining his 124 following his win in the G1 Longines Breeders' Cup Turf, and pulled up second place finisher Up to the Mark (Not This Time) and third place Shahryar (Jpn) (Deep Impact {Jpn})'s ratings in the process. The former went to 122 from 121 and the latter joined the rankings off the effort.
In all, seven of the 11 top-rated runners are trained in Europe, two are based in Japan, and two are in Hong Kong. The year-end rankings will be released in January 2024. A full-list can be found on the IFHA website.
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