Shamardal’s Group I winning son Lope de Vega started his stud career shuttling to Patinack Farm in Hunter Valley from 2011 to 2014 at fees of $27,500 and then $22,000, but has shot to fame in the years since then with Ballylinch Stud in Ireland announcing his 2025 fee at €175,000.
Lope de Vega has had a super successful year siring 30 stakes-winners this year headed by six Group I winners – Look de Vega, Shadow of Light and Rouhiya in Europe, Carl Spackler and Program Trading in the US and Duke de Sessa in Australia winning the Caulfield Cup.
Managing director John O'Connor said: "At Ballylinch Stud our stallion roster has a mix of proven high achievers and young talent with huge potential. We look forward to working with our clients to help them achieve continued success both on the racetrack and in the sales ring.
"Lope De Vega continues to prove himself as a global sire sensation. He has again proven his effectiveness at the very highest level with the most Group 1 winners, European Classic winners, and black-type horses of any stallion worldwide this season. His ongoing success is underscored by his international appeal in the sales ring and the consistent results his progeny achieve on the global stage. His fee increase will coincide with a reduced book size for 2025."
Lope de Vega turns 18 next year and was priced at €125,000 in 2024.
