2026 Rosebud: Central Europe carries Waller’s hopes amid stable uncertainty

Chris Waller’s ambition to claim an early victory in Sydney’s three-year-old features may fall to Central Europe, with his other two contenders for The Rosebud facing uncertainty about their participation.

Hidrix, carrying the topweight, is reportedly being saved for the San Domenico Stakes (1100m) in two weeks after drawing barrier 17. Separately, the Perth-based filly Striking Alibi might be redirected to the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) next week, having drawn gate 12.

“We were probably only going to run (Hidrix) if he drew perfectly, just because of the weight,” said Waller’s assistant trainer, Charlie Duckworth.

“Striking Alibi has been really sharp in all of her work since coming to us. She has been pretty pushbutton in terms of she has settled in well and done everything right.

“Just the draw might mean she could wait and go against the fillies next week instead.”

There are no such reservations about commencing Central Europe’s three-year-old season, with the colt drawing barrier seven.

The Frankel colt has shown promise in his two previous starts, both at Group level, including a narrow second to stablemate Campione D’Italia, who went on to win the ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes, in the Skyline Stakes (1200m) in February.

While the stable expects him to perform better over longer distances than the 1100m of The Rosebud, the confidence of star jockey James McDonald has swayed them to target the Listed sprint instead of a lesser race on the program.

“We had him nominated in the 1300 as well but James was confident off his trials and trackwork that 1100 was fine. He’s been sharper than he was last time in, so that’s a positive,” Duckworth commented.

“He’s a beautiful colt, incredibly well bred. We’ll learn a bit more on Saturday.”

If Central Europe performs well in his initial races, he is being targeted for the Golden Rose, for which he is currently sharing the fourth line of betting at $11.

Four horses have been withdrawn from The Rosebud field: Tornado Valley, Outspan, Oh Yes She Did, and Scintillation. All are anticipated to race in stakes events at Caulfield.

Central Europe is on a clear path towards the Golden Rose if he performs well in The Rosebud, with current odds of $11. You can compare the latest racing odds at online bookmakers.