In a heart-stopping finish that will be etched into the history of the world's oldest Classic, Tom Marquand delivered a masterclass in timing aboard the outsider Scandinavia to clinch a dramatic victory in the 249th running of the St Leger at Doncaster.
The race unfolded as a tactical affair before exploding into life in the final furlongs. All eyes were on the hot favourite, Rahiebb, who loomed large under a powerful drive and seemed destined to claim the crown. But Marquand, riding with ice-cool precision, had other ideas.
Finding a crucial gap, Marquand asked the 25-1 shot Scandinavia for everything he had. The response was immediate and electric. In a breathtaking duel to the line, the duo locked horns with the favourite, matching him stride for stride before inching ahead in the shadow of the post to win by a head.
A Career-Defining Classic for Marquand
For Marquand, the victory marks a monumental achievement, securing his first St Leger triumph and a third British Classic win. The elated jockey was quick to praise his equine partner's incredible heart and determination in the closing stages of the gruelling one-mile-six-furlong contest.
"It's what every jockey dreams of," Marquand declared post-race. "To win a Classic, especially the St Leger with all its heritage, is absolutely phenomenal. He's a tough, genuine horse and he dug deeper than I ever thought possible when Rahiebb came to us."
Favourite Denied in Nail-Biting Finale
For connections of the favourite Rahiebb, it was a case of so near yet so far. The colt ran a gallant race and looked the winner a dozen strides from the finish, only to be denied by the relentless, late surge of Marquand and Scandinavia.
The result caused a major upset on the Town Moor, rewarding each-way punters handsomely and providing a thrilling conclusion to the final Classic of the 2025 flat racing season. The win cements Scandinavia's name alongside the legends of the sport and provides a story of underdog triumph that will be talked about for years to come.
