Curragh Racing Insights – Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day, June 28, 2026
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The Curragh racecourse hosts one of the most prestigious meetings of the Irish racing calendar this Sunday, featuring the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby as the highlight of a nine-race card. This International Horse Racing Analysis examines the key contenders across the full program, providing comprehensive Global Thoroughbred Racing Insights for enthusiasts following the Irish racing scene. The Curragh, with its wide, galloping track and historic significance, provides a true test of class and stamina.
This meeting features races ranging from 6f to 1m4f, offering a thorough examination of racing athleticism across various trip requirements. The Curragh circuit, with its expansive turf surface, places a premium on stamina and the ability to maintain a consistent rhythm. Several trainers have specifically targeted this meeting with their highest-class performers, including the Aidan O’Brien stable which holds a strong hand across the card. These Expert Race Day Strategic Picks are designed to help racing enthusiasts navigate this high-quality card.
The feature event, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1), has attracted a quality field of three-year-olds including Epsom Derby participants and promising Classic contenders. The supporting card features Group 3 and Listed contests, including the Dubai Duty Free International Stakes and the Celebration Stakes, both of which have attracted competitive fields with genuine winning chances. This World-Class Racing Form Guide incorporates a detailed examination of recent form, class levels, and tactical considerations that will shape the outcomes of the nine races.
This Comprehensive Racing Performance Trends analysis incorporates a detailed examination of recent form, class levels, and tactical considerations that will shape the outcomes of the nine races. By focusing on horse athleticism, race strategy, and performance trends rather than speculation, this analysis delivers genuine value to racing enthusiasts. The Professional Racing Performance Profile approach ensures each selection is backed by race-specific reasoning and evidence-based observations.
Track Condition & Surface Characteristics
The Curragh features a wide, left-handed turf track measuring approximately 2m2f with a home straight of 6f. The track is renowned for its galloping nature and fair surface, providing a true test of stamina and class. The ground conditions for this meeting are expected to be good, providing a fair surface for all runners and favouring those with proven class and stamina.
The expansive nature of the Curragh track means that tactical speed and the ability to maintain a rhythm are critical factors. Horses that can position themselves advantageously and finish strongly are often favoured, while those who struggle to quicken can find themselves vulnerable. The wide, sweeping turns allow runners to secure competitive positions without the congestion often found on tighter circuits.
This Jockey and Trainer Performance Trends analysis identifies several runners with proven Curragh form who are well-positioned to capitalise on their experience. The consistent track conditions mean that horses with previous form on this course often hold an advantage over those making their debut on the surface.
Pace Projection & Tactical Dynamics
The pace scenarios across this Curragh card are shaped by the characteristics of the turf surface and the specific distance configurations. In the sprint races over 6f, the genuine tempos are expected, with several runners keen to press forward from the outset. The wide nature of the track means that leaders who can establish a clear break may be difficult to run down, provided they maintain their speed through the straight.
The middle-distance contests over 1m and 1m2f present more nuanced pace dynamics, where the balance between early speed and sustained finishing ability becomes critical. The Curragh turf allows horses to produce their finishing bursts without the concern of track deterioration, making tactical speed and sectionals particularly relevant. This Horse Athleticism and Pace Analysis examines how each runner’s running style aligns with the expected tempo on this consistent surface.
The feature Irish Derby over 1m4f is likely to be run at a genuine staying tempo, with several Classic contenders engaged who will look to ensure the distance is properly tested. This should create a favourable scenario for runners with proven stamina who can launch their finishing efforts from midfield without being overly taxed in the early stages. The Reliable Race Day Strategic Anchor for this meeting should be a horse with both proven class and stamina.
Expert Top Insights
🥇 Top Contender of the Day: Race One Number 1 – Alpha
Alpha ran notably well on debut earlier this month, showing inexperience when missing the break but finishing strongly. By Sea The Stars and out of top racemare Alpha Centauri, the Aidan O’Brien-trained youngster looks sure to improve significantly and can make her mark in this competitive fillies maiden.
💰 Best Value Runner: Race Seven Number 2 – Benvenuto Cellini
Benvenuto Cellini represents outstanding value in the Irish Derby, with his Epsom ‘non-run’ excuses and the better ground expected to bring out significant improvement. The Chester Vase winner can show his true colours on this occasion.
🔥 Strong Each-Way Performer: Race Six Number 1 – Alcantor
Alcantor has high-class form from his French Guineas placing and can get back to winning ways in the Celebration Stakes. The step back up to 1m on better ground should suit him ideally.
⚓ Strategic Anchor:
In the opinion of Global Racing Hub, Alpha brings the most reliable profile on today’s program. Her combination of blue-blooded pedigree, strong debut performance, and expected improvement makes her the standout Reliable Race Day Strategic Anchor for this Curragh meeting.
Race Number 1 – GAIN Equine Nutrition Irish European Breeders Fund Fillies Maiden – 6f
🥇 Key Contender: 1 – Alpha
Alpha ran notably well on debut earlier this month. By Sea The Stars and out of top racemare Alpha Centauri, the Aidan O’Brien-trained youngster showed inexperience when missing the break, but was a strong finisher and looks sure to improve. The manner in which she finished that race, making ground from midfield and closing strongly, suggests she has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 6f trip on this consistent surface should allow her to produce her finishing effort, and her recent work suggests she is ready to produce a career-best performance. Her blue-blooded pedigree indicates she has the potential to be a top-class performer, and her trainer’s record with well-bred fillies at this venue is strong enough to command confidence.
🥈 Main Challenger: 10 – Livenka
Livenka hasn’t raced since being well touted for her Naas introduction in April, when she ran well in a hot maiden won by last week’s Queen Mary winner Victorious. She is a half-sister to her yard’s Group 1-winning juvenile Babouche and while her lack of a recent outing isn’t ideal, she holds a Moyglare Stud Stakes entry. Her pedigree suggests she has the potential to be a top-class performer, and her trainer’s record with fillies at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 8 – Endless Night
Endless Night is a sister to last week’s Jersey Stakes-winning stablemate Thesecretadversary, suggesting she has the pedigree to make her mark in this maiden. Her recent work has been encouraging, and the 6f trip on the Curragh track should suit her racing style. She represents significant each-way value in a race where the market may focus on the more established runners.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 1 – Alpha
2nd Pick: 10 – Livenka
3rd Pick: 8 – Endless Night
Race Number 2 – Dubai Duty Free Rockingham Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 6f
🥇 Key Contender: 1 – Gazelle D’or
Gazelle D’or has joint-top weight in a competitive handicap, but has good form lines and is suited by conditions. Initially rated just 70, she has progressed really well and got closest to Mission Central at Naas last month, prior to that horse winning the King Charles III at Royal Ascot last week. The manner in which she finished that race, closing strongly from midfield, suggests she has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 6f trip on this consistent surface should allow her to produce her finishing effort, and her recent work suggests she is ready to produce a career-best performance. Her trainer’s decision to run her here rather than seeking tougher company speaks volumes about their confidence in her ability to win at this level.
🥈 Main Challenger: 3 – Likedbymike
Likedbymike was herself beaten less than a length by Mission Central in April and although she finished a close second in a recent Listed race at Cork, she has a fraction to find with the selection on that Naas meeting in May. Her consistent form on similar tracks is notable, and she has the tactical speed to position herself advantageously through the bends. The 6f trip suits her racing pattern, and her trainer’s record with sprinters at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 6 – Toca Madera
English runner Toca Madera scored very easily at Doncaster but is now 11lb higher, making him a value contender if he can back that performance up. His recent work suggests he is capable of handling the rise in the weights, and the 6f trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style. He represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 1 – Gazelle D’or
2nd Pick: 3 – Likedbymike
3rd Pick: 6 – Toca Madera
Race Number 3 – Jebel Ali Racecourse & Stables Dash Stakes (Listed) – 6f
🥇 Key Contender: 3 – Tango Flare
Tango Flare is better suited by today’s likely good ground than regular rival and fan favourite Big Gossey, and comes here in good form. The pair have raced against each other nine times and while the selection was beaten in the first seven meetings, he has finished ahead the last twice and scored over this trip at Fairyhouse recently. The manner in which he won that race, jumping from the stalls and maintaining his position through the straight, suggests he has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 6f trip on this consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance.
🥈 Main Challenger: 1 – Big Gossey
Veteran nine-time course winner Big Gossey is holding his form very well and finished second in the Greenlands here last month. His consistent form on this track is notable, and he has the tactical speed to position himself advantageously through the bends. The 6f trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record with sprinters at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 4 – Silk Braid
Colin Keane notably gets down to a light weight to ride Silk Braid and although she hasn’t raced since April and is an inexperienced three-year-old, she is capable of further progression. Her recent work suggests she is ready to produce a peak performance, and the 6f trip on the Curragh circuit should suit her racing style. She represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 3 – Tango Flare
2nd Pick: 1 – Big Gossey
3rd Pick: 4 – Silk Braid
Race Number 4 – Dubai Duty Free Derby Festival Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 1m
🥇 Key Contender: 12 – Pretty Omagh Girl
Pretty Omagh Girl lacks a little experience competing against more battle-hardened rivals but she won easily over C&D on handicap debut last month. Out of a well-related American stakes-placed mare, the selection built on three maiden runs when making all in the aforementioned contest and, despite a 10lb rise, she can progress further. The manner in which she won that race, leading from the outset and kicking clear at the top of the straight, demonstrated a level of class and strength that will serve her well in this competitive event. The 1m trip on this consistent surface should allow her to produce her finishing effort, and her recent work suggests she is ready to produce a career-best performance.
🥈 Main Challenger: 8 – Slieve Binnian
Slieve Binnian followed up last year’s win in this race with another Premier Handicap success last July and while his rating has climbed, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him run well. His consistent form on this track is notable, and he has the tactical speed to position himself advantageously through the bends. The 1m trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 5 – Zarathos
Zarathos has been running consistently well in England and connections have booked the services of Dylan Browne McMonagle. His recent work suggests he is ready to produce a peak performance, and the 1m trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style. He represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 12 – Pretty Omagh Girl
2nd Pick: 8 – Slieve Binnian
3rd Pick: 5 – Zarathos
Race Number 5 – Dubai Duty Free International Stakes (Group 3) – 1m2f
🥇 Key Contender: 3 – Purview
Purview can take another step up the ladder after a couple of Listed wins. He was very impressive on his return to action here last month in the Orby Stakes and looks to have really blossomed as a four-year-old. That came over 1m4f but dropping back a couple of furlongs shouldn’t be an issue for Dermot Weld’s colt. The manner in which he won that race, settling off the speed before producing a sustained finish, suggests he has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 1m2f trip on this consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance. This Comprehensive Racing Performance Trends analysis identifies Purview as a standout performer in this Group 3 contest.
🥈 Main Challenger: 2 – Hotazhell
On ratings, Hotazhell is the danger and the Group 1 winner commands plenty of respect. He looked like he had come to win his race last time at Navan but ran around in the closing stages and was nabbed late on by Isaac Newton. Cheekpieces are fitted now and he can reverse that form, making him a serious threat to the favourite.
🥉 Value Contender: 4 – Isaac Newton
Isaac Newton beat Hotazhell last time at Navan and arrives with strong claims in this Group 3 contest. His consistent form on similar tracks is notable, and he has the tactical speed to position himself advantageously through the bends. The 1m2f trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 3 – Purview
2nd Pick: 2 – Hotazhell
3rd Pick: 4 – Isaac Newton
Race Number 6 – Dubai Duty Free Celebration Stakes (Listed) – 1m
🥇 Key Contender: 1 – Alcantor
Alcantor looks like a nice opportunity to get back to winning ways. The New Bay entire was placed in the French Guineas a couple of years ago and has some high-class form. He ran a solid enough race when fourth on his debut for Joseph O’Brien at Leopardstown and 7f may have been a bit sharp for him behind subsequent Queen Anne hero Ten Bob Tony last time at Epsom. The manner in which he finished that race, closing strongly from midfield despite the sharp trip, suggests he will appreciate the step back up to 1m on this Curragh track. The consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance. This Professional Racing Performance Profile identifies Alcantor as a standout performer in this Listed contest.
🥈 Main Challenger: 3 – Tokenomics
Tokenomics was in front of the selection at Leopardstown last month, when chasing home Catalina Delcarpio. He’s a solid performer and is an obvious danger, having shown consistent form on similar tracks. The 1m trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 4 – Duckadilly
Duckadilly won at this level in Navan three weeks ago and is another for the shortlist, arriving with consistent form and proven ability on similar tracks. The 1m trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style, and he represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 1 – Alcantor
2nd Pick: 3 – Tokenomics
3rd Pick: 4 – Duckadilly
Race Number 7 – Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby (Group 1) – 1m4f
🥇 Key Contender: 2 – Benvenuto Cellini
Aidan O’Brien retains the faith in Benvenuto Cellini and he can leave behind a disappointing, and controversial, ‘non-run’ at Epsom. The Frankel colt had his leg up on the side of the stalls as they opened and, after missing the kick as a result, finished well beaten after being hampered as well. The soft ground that day may not have been ideal either and, on better going now, the impressive Chester Vase winner can show his true colours. The manner in which he won the Chester Vase, settling off the speed before producing a sustained finish, suggests he has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 1m4f trip on this consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance. This Professional Racing Performance Profile identifies Benvenuto Cellini as a standout performer in this Classic contest.
🥈 Main Challenger: 4 – Christmas Day
Derby winner Christmas Day looks a real out-and-out galloper and stamina is his forte. He could play a big role again, having shown he stays the trip well and has the class to be competitive at Group 1 level. His consistent form makes him a serious threat to the favourite.
🥉 Value Contender: 3 – James J Braddock
Epsom third James J Braddock also has to be respected, especially given his antics pre-race. His recent form at the highest level suggests he is capable of being competitive, and the 1m4f trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style. He represents significant each-way value in this Classic contest.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 2 – Benvenuto Cellini
2nd Pick: 4 – Christmas Day
3rd Pick: 3 – James J Braddock
Race Number 8 – Tulfarris Hotel And Golf Resort Maddenstown Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 1m
🥇 Key Contender: 5 – Antigua
Antigua produced a fine front-running performance when winning his maiden at Fairyhouse earlier in the month and looks capable of following up now sent into handicaps. The Camelot colt had produced a couple of solid efforts previously and the combination of blinkers and a tongue-tie seemed to work well last time. The manner in which he won that race, leading from the outset and kicking clear at the top of the straight, demonstrated a level of class and strength that will serve him well in this competitive event. The 1m trip on this consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance.
🥈 Main Challenger: 3 – Bobby Mcgee
Bobby Mcgee has had a terrific season to date, completing a hat-trick at Naas last month. He has a bit more on his plate now but is respected nonetheless, having shown consistent form on similar tracks. The 1m trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 7 – How’sthebai
How’sthebai was a cosy winner at Leopardstown last time and is another to consider, despite a 9lb hike for that victory. His recent work suggests he is ready to produce a peak performance, and the 1m trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style. He represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 5 – Antigua
2nd Pick: 3 – Bobby Mcgee
3rd Pick: 7 – How’sthebai
Race Number 9 – Dubai Duty Free Irish European Breeders Fund Ragusa Handicap (Premier Handicap) – 1m2f
🥇 Key Contender: 7 – Factual Fact
Factual Fact can land this valuable prize. The Authorized gelding clipped heels and stumbled shortly after the start here last time and he raced keenly as a result. He pulled his way to the front, but still looked the likely winner when kicking a few lengths clear passing the two-furlong marker. Poetic Sound wore him down eventually, but it was a fine run given the circumstances and dropping back in trip should be no problem. The manner in which he finished that race, despite the early trouble, suggests he has the class and athleticism to handle the demands of this Curragh track. The 1m2f trip on this consistent surface should allow him to produce his finishing effort, and his recent work suggests he is ready to produce a career-best performance.
🥈 Main Challenger: 5 – The Real Screamer
The Real Screamer arrives here in search of a hat-trick and must be respected, having shown consistent form on similar tracks. His jumping has been reliable, and he has the tactical speed to position himself advantageously through the bends. The 1m2f trip suits his racing pattern, and his trainer’s record at this venue is strong enough to command respect.
🥉 Value Contender: 4 – Obscenity
Obscenity is also in fine form and arrives with strong claims in this competitive handicap. His recent work suggests he is ready to produce a peak performance, and the 1m2f trip on the Curragh circuit should suit his racing style. He represents significant each-way value.
Strategic Picks
1st Pick: 7 – Factual Fact
2nd Pick: 5 – The Real Screamer
3rd Pick: 4 – Obscenity
Barrier Draw Assessment & Tactical Positioning
The Curragh’s wide, galloping track means that barrier positioning is less influential than on tighter circuits, but it still plays a role in determining tactical options. Inside barriers generally allow runners to secure a economical run along the rail, conserving energy for the finish. This is particularly relevant in the sprint races over 6f where early positioning can be decisive. This Race Day Strategic Evaluation considers how each runner’s draw position influences their tactical options.
Middle barriers require jockeys to make tactical decisions based on the expected pace scenario and the specific characteristics of the Curragh track. Runners with sufficient early speed will look to cross and find the rail, while those with less pace may need to settle off the speed and rely on their finishing burst. The wide nature of the track means that horses from middle barriers can still secure competitive positions without being significantly disadvantaged.
Wide barriers in the larger fields present the greatest challenge, particularly in the staying events where jockeys must balance the urge to press forward with the energy expenditure required to cover extra ground. The expansive nature of the Curragh turf means that horses racing wide are not disadvantaged by deteriorating ground conditions, allowing them to race where they are most comfortable and obtain clear running when required.
Jockey & Trainer Performance Trends
The trainer statistics at the Curragh reveal several key trends that inform this analysis. Trainers who have established records of success at the highest level are particularly prominent on this program, with several stables having specifically targeted this meeting for their best performers. The Aidan O’Brien stable holds a particularly strong hand across the card, with several runners holding leading claims in their respective races.
The jockey roster for this meeting features the best riders in the business, with their familiarity with the Curragh circuit providing an additional advantage. Jockeys who know this track well understand the optimal positions to be in at each stage of the race, particularly on the expansive turf surface where maintaining a consistent rhythm and finding the best ground can be decisive. The booking of top-class riders for key contenders is a strong indicator of intent from their trainers.
This Jockey and Trainer Performance Trends analysis identifies several key factors that will influence the outcomes of the competitive races. Trainers who have identified the ideal conditions for their charges—whether it be a specific distance, a particular track, or a race tempo that suits their running style—tend to be rewarded when their horses are presented at their optimal fitness levels.
Top Choice for the Meeting
Race One – Number 1 – Alpha
Alpha emerges as the clear top choice across the entire Curragh program, combining blue-blooded pedigree, a strong debut performance, and significant scope for improvement. Her debut run earlier this month demonstrated considerable talent despite showing inexperience when missing the break, and she finished strongly to suggest she has the class and athleticism to make her mark at the highest level. By Sea The Stars and out of top racemare Alpha Centauri, she has the pedigree to be a top-class performer, and her trainer’s record with well-bred fillies at this venue is strong enough to command confidence. This Professional Racing Performance Profile identifies Alpha as the most reliable performer on the card, with her combination of pedigree, promise, and expected improvement setting her apart from her rivals.
Author: Global Racing Hub Editorial Team
Role: Professional Horse Racing Analysts
Expertise: International Horse Racing Coverage
Specialization: Race Performance Analysis & Form Evaluation
About the Author Team
The Global Racing Hub editorial team comprises experienced racing analysts with extensive coverage of international racing circuits. Our team specializes in evaluating race performance metrics, assessing horse athleticism and pace dynamics, and delivering Expert Race Day Strategic Picks for thoroughbred racing events across Australia, the UK, Europe, Ireland, South Africa, and India. We bring decades of combined experience in form analysis and race strategy evaluation to every meeting we cover. Our Global Thoroughbred Racing Insights provide value to racing enthusiasts worldwide.
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Conclusion & Strategic Takeaways
This Curragh Irish Derby Day meeting presents a compelling puzzle for racing analysts, with several key themes emerging from the form study. The expansive nature of the Curragh turf places a premium on stamina and class, with horses who have proven form at the highest level holding a significant advantage. This World-Class Racing Form Guide has identified the key contenders across each race, with the Comprehensive Racing Performance Trends analysis providing valuable insights into the likely outcomes.
The standout performer on the card is Alpha in Race One, whose blue-blooded pedigree and promising debut performance make her the most reliable proposition. Her combination of pedigree, promise, and expected improvement sets her apart from her rivals in a race that appears to be her to lose. The each-way value lies with Benvenuto Cellini in Race Seven, whose Epsom excuses and expected improvement on better ground make him a compelling proposition in the Irish Derby, and Alcantor in Race Six, whose high-class form and step back up to 1m make him a strong each-way candidate.
As always, Global Racing Hub encourages enthusiasts to utilise this World-Class Racing Form Guide alongside their own assessment of the final fields and market movements. The inclusion of International Horse Racing Analysis and Global Thoroughbred Racing Insights ensures that readers gain a thorough understanding of the meeting’s key dynamics. For those seeking Expert Race Day Strategic Picks, the standout selections of Alpha, Benvenuto Cellini, and Alcantor provide a solid foundation for evaluating the card’s most compelling racing propositions.
The Comprehensive Racing Performance Trends presented here aim to equip racing fans with the knowledge needed to navigate the Curragh program effectively. By focusing on Horse Athleticism and Pace Analysis, race strategy, and performance trends rather than speculation, this analysis delivers genuine value to readers. For daily horse racing analysis and live updates, follow Global Racing Hub across our community channels listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the top contender of the day at the Curragh?
Alpha in Race One stands out as the top contender of the day, based on her blue-blooded pedigree and promising debut performance. By Sea The Stars and out of top racemare Alpha Centauri, she has the potential to be a top-class performer and looks sure to improve significantly.
2. Which horse represents the best value runner on the card?
Benvenuto Cellini in Race Seven offers exceptional value, with his Epsom ‘non-run’ excuses and the better ground expected to bring out significant improvement. The Chester Vase winner can show his true colours in the Irish Derby.
3. How does the Curragh track impact racing outcomes?
The Curragh’s wide, galloping track provides a fair and consistent test of stamina and class. The expansive nature of the turf means that tactical decisions and the ability to maintain a rhythm are critical factors in determining outcomes, with class and stamina often being decisive.
4. Which race appears to be the most competitive on the Curragh program?
Race Two, the Dubai Duty Free Rockingham Handicap over 6f, appears to be the most open contest with several quality handicappers capable of winning on their best form. The sprint trip, combined with the competitive field and the unique demands of the Curragh track, creates a scenario where tactical decisions and class will be decisive factors.
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