Really crazy he has to pay his way back.  Did he not earn anything over there?

Here's a situation where some wealthy owners could pitch-in for charity.  Some of them are great and do their part, but others participate in the sport and give nothing back--I find that shameful!

Thanks MJ ; ) 

It is my understanding WE was not great in the breeding barn; that being said some owners just don't pitch-in after they stop making a profit. i think  Silver Charm's owners were highly commended by Michael for footing  the bill to bring him home.  Also, Ii is probably costing more to bring WE home since his vet and groom are accompanying him as the horse does not travel well, so there is the added expense to get the two here and then fly them back.

klb

If I remember correctly he was owned by a Saudi prince who died a couple years later unexpectedly (heart attack ??).  If not mistaken his horses, were all sold at dispersal.  Not certain if the estate or an heir retained ownership of War Emblem or whether the farm in Japan purchased him.  If the farm in Japan purchased, then I would imagine they would not be willing to pay his way back. 

Yes, it was Prince Ahmed bin Salman.  He died that same year War Emblem won the Derby/Preakness (2002). I'm not sure who purchased War Emblem after the dispersal-will have to look into that.  I do know that whoever purchased him went through hoops trying to get him over his disinterest in breeding mares.

I just think more of the wealthy horse owners in general should contribute to funds that go to the care of thoroughbreds after their racing/breeding careers are over (many do contribute, but many do not and that needs to change).

Hopefully Baffert chipped in a bit, out of his trainer's share of the about 2 million winnings, he ought to be able to.

Yes, especially with the riches from this year!