Switzerland’s $2.7m Brother Wins on Debut at Warwick Farm

Bets.com.au Staff

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Last updated: Wed 15 Apr 2026 05:23

Bets.com.au Staff 15 Apr 2026

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St Gotthard wins on debut at Warwick Farm under James McDonald
The colt belongs to a prestigious racing lineage, having been bought for $2.7 million
Victory suggests a promising future, following the success of his siblings

Switzerland winning the 2024 Coolmore Stud Stakes. (Getty)

High-priced colt St Gotthard has created an immediate impression, with the $2.7 million Inglis Easter yearling producing a tough and professional debut win in the opening race at Warwick Farm on Wednesday.

Ridden by champion hoop James McDonald, the Chris Waller-trained colt was heavily supported in betting ahead of his first start and justified that confidence with a composed on-speed performance, settling outside the leader before showing determination in the straight to bravely hold off a late challenge from Peyton, who loomed as a genuine threat in the final furlong.

By Snitzel out of the imported mare Ms Bad Behaviour, St Gotthard boasts one of the most sought-after pedigrees in the country and is raced by Coolmore interests after being secured by Tom Magnier at last year’s Easter sale.

The colt is a full brother to 2024 Coolmore Stud Stakes winner Switzerland, who has since retired to stud, while another sibling, Decorum, had been building an impressive profile with a hat-trick of wins prior to contesting the Randwick Guineas.

Decorum failed to fire in that Group 1 assignment, however post-race examinations revealed cardiac arrhythmia, providing a legitimate excuse for the below-par performance.

With that depth of talent already emerging from the family, St Gotthard’s debut success adds further momentum to a rapidly developing bloodline, and the manner of his first-up victory suggests he may have the scope to follow in the footsteps of his accomplished siblings.