Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of horse racing and breeding! The story of Baaeed, Europe’s top-rated horse, takes an intriguing turn.
Baaeed, a true champion and a legend in the making, will be the star attraction at Shadwell’s 2026 stallion roster, but with a twist – his fee has been adjusted to £55,000, a significant reduction from previous years.
Since his retirement, Baaeed has been a popular choice among breeders, covering an impressive number of mares each season. His pedigree is impeccable, with a lineage that includes Sea The Stars, and his progeny are already making waves in the industry. With 21 top-flight winners and 21 Group 1 winner-producing dams among his visitors, Baaeed’s impact is undeniable.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Baaeed’s fee reduction might raise some eyebrows. After standing at £80,000 for his first two seasons, it’s now been trimmed to £55,000. Is this a strategic move by Shadwell to stay competitive in an uncertain market, or could there be other factors at play?
And this is the part most people miss… Baaeed’s first yearlings have already hit the market, and they’re turning heads. His sons and daughters are fetching impressive prices, with an average of £189,920. One standout example is the half-sister to Arabian Crown and The Juliet Rose, who sold for a whopping €800,000!
Baaeed isn’t the only star at Shadwell. The Beech House Stud boasts an impressive lineup, including Mohaather and Mostahdaf. Mohaather sired his first Group 1 winner in 2025, and his fee has been adjusted to £10,000 for the upcoming season. Mostahdaf, with his impressive books of mares, will see his first crop hit the market soon, and his fee has also been reduced to £9,000.
Over at Shadwell’s Irish stallion division, Minzaal leads the way with an unchanged fee of €12,500. His first yearlings have received an enthusiastic response, with an average price of £76,320, a remarkable six times his initial fee! The most expensive among them was the half-sister to Asymmetric and Mill Stream, who sold for 550,000gns.
Minzaal stands alongside Awtaad, whose fee has increased to €8,500, a well-deserved recognition for his recent success. Awtaad, a 12-year-old son of Cape Cross, sired his third top-level winner, Ethical Diamond, in a memorable Grade 1 victory.
In a statement, Shadwell emphasized their commitment to breeding excellence and fair value in an uncertain market. They believe these fees provide an opportunity for breeders to share in the success of exceptional young stallions.
So, what do you think? Is Shadwell’s fee adjustment a smart move, or do you see it as a potential risk? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss the future of these legendary stallions!