Andrea Atzeni dedicates emotional Sydney Cup win to Stefano Cherchi, amidst tough times for his family.
Atzeni formed a strong friendship with Cherchi, who rode more than 100 winners in Britain before riding in Australia during the winter. He was grateful to see his family on the racetrack for the first time since Stefano died. Atzeni dedicated the victory to Stefano, saying, “It’s definitely for Stefano.
It’s been a tough time for his family, and it’s amazing to see them here. It must be very tough for them to be here, and they’re here because I came. It wouldn’t have been an easy decision for them to come racing today.
It shows how tough they are.” He added, “Unfortunately, Stefano left us doing what he wanted to do and what he loved doing.” Maher acknowledged the close friendship between Andrea and Stefano, saying, “It’s fitting as Andrea was such good mates with Stefano.”
The victory for the former Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt was his second in seven days as he finished two lengths clear of Athabascan in second. Serpentine, the 2020 Derby winner with Aidan O’Brien, finished fourth. Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place.