Tonight’s participants screened: Leocorno and Civetta are the favorites, but watch out for surprises

The Palio of August 16, 2025, will be held tonight at 7:00 PM. We’re happy to provide an overview of the 10 participants. Valdimontone is ready to seize its chance, while Aquila is a definite outsider. It’s a Palio with many favorites, but also potential surprises. The missed tests favor experienced horses and jockeys, but as always, the start will be crucial. Here’s a look at the 10 participants:

Leocorno

Tittia and Diodoro, who won in July, seem to be the combination to beat. The horse was among the most sought-after, has proven to be in excellent condition, and has displayed a fluid canter. Tittia seems calm. They haven’t yet shown their full potential, but they start as favorites. Provenzano’s success raises expectations. The start will be especially important because of the rival’s presence. They are the main candidates for victory.

Civetta

Benitos, ridden by Scompiglio, is the other favorite duo. Ironically, these two rivals are both highly ambitious. Bartoletti has shown a knack for reading these situations. The duo shows great promise, and Scompiglio, after several winless years, is highly motivated. So they are certainly among the key contenders.

Valdimontone

Gingillo on Anda and Bola make a solid duo. This is the third appearance for the strong horse, who has already gained experience at the Piazza and has proven his strength. However, it must also be said that he has never arrived with Fantino and has had some bad luck (losing a horseshoe). The duo is the most concrete alternative to the two favorites. Zedde knows he can’t afford any mistakes.

Aquila

Diosu de Campeda, ridden by Virgola, is one of the most high-quality duos. They impressed with their power, which they displayed in some tests. Given the horse’s characteristics, Andrea Sanna will be able to ride an aggressive race, although the presence of his rival could influence the strategy.

Bruco

Carlo Sanna and Diamante Grigio, a debutant, stood out for their determination and steady progress, until the Quarta Prova, where they went off the turn. Mattia Chiavassa (Tambani) is replacing the injured Brigante. A perfect opportunity for a horse that is on the rise and appears to be incredibly fast. A definite outsider.

Drago

Zenis remains one of the most competitive horses, with a consistent canter and fast starts. Tempesta (Andrea Coghe) can make a significant contribution at the start. Experts see her as a potential surprise.

Giraffa

Ungaros, an established horse with three Palios under his belt, has good qualities. Turbine (Elias Mannucci) seems to read the horse well and demonstrated his capabilities as a fast starter during the test. After missing the Palio in July, this is an important Palio to relaunch himself. As far as we’re concerned, he’s an unknown…

Pantera

Velluto and Viso d’Angelo have consistently worked out of the spotlight. The fantino has focused on improving the horse, which has a lot of experience. We now know that the horse struggles between the ropes during a long start. Dino Pes has nothing to lose, and just like last year, only a win to be had. Although he certainly needs to keep an eye on his rivals. A determined duo that can go either way.

Onda

Veranu has experience and can aim for the very best in his fourth Palio. Grandine (Sebastiano Murtas) adds determination to the duo. After missing the Palio in July, they’re back in contention. They’re not among the favorites, but like Giraffa, they can only surprise…

Tartuca

Antonio Siri was the first choice in the afternoon after the Tratta. But after Alessandro Cersosimo’s first Prova, the choice seemed to change. We had expected a new debutant. But after the fourth Prova, Tartuca surprised us with Amsicora. He is the trainer of Entu de P. Ulpu and tested the horse in the Prova Generale and the Provaccia. Amsicora is returning from a long suspension and has been given a new chance. It’s up to him to take it.