The world of horse racing is abuzz with the latest news from the Aga Khan Studs, as they unveil their 2026 stallion fees, and the spotlight shines brightest on Sea The Stars.
Sea The Stars Shines Brighter Than Ever
Sea The Stars, the legendary stallion, will command a staggering €300,000 (US$346,908) fee for his services, a significant increase from the previous €250,000. This comes as no surprise, given his remarkable achievements this year. But here's where it gets controversial: is such a high fee justified?
The Irish-based sire has had an exceptional year, producing three group 1 winners, with Daryz taking the spotlight by winning the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (G1). Aventure and Sosie further solidified his reputation. And this is the part most people miss—his success isn't limited to the racetrack.
Sea The Stars' offspring have also excelled in the sales ring, with a colt from Crystal Zvezda fetching an astonishing 3.7 million guineas (US$5,238,942), setting a global record for yearling sales in 2025. As a broodmare sire, he added three more group 1 winners, bringing his total to an impressive 10. His growing influence in various aspects of the horse racing industry justifies the substantial fee increase.
The Rest of the Stud's Stellar Roster
Siyouni, another prominent stallion, will stand for €150,000, a reduction from this year's fee. Despite the decrease, his legacy is solid, consistently producing classic winners, including European Guineas champions. His international success is noteworthy, with winners like Bellezza and Shin Emperor. Siyouni's influence as a sire of sires and a broodmare sire is also on the rise, making him a stallion to watch.
Zarak, a rising star, has already produced 12 group 1 horses, with recent additions like Laurelin and Campacite making waves. His yearling prices are soaring, with a filly selling for €1.1 million. With his first crop conceived at a fee of €60,000, Zarak's future looks bright, and his fee remains steady at €80,000 for 2026.
European champion Vadeni and group 2 winner Erevann welcomed their first foals this year. Vadeni, a Prix du Jockey Club and Eclipse Stakes champion, will stand at a reduced fee of €15,000, while Erevann's fee remains at €8,000.
The Aga Khan Studs' roster is a testament to the quality and diversity of their breeding program. With such an impressive lineup, the 2026 breeding season promises to be an exciting one. What do you think about these fees and the future of these stallions? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments!
