June 18 / 18.10 Ascot

18.10

Good To Firm

Buckingham Palace Stakes (Handicap)

  • Prize money: £61848
  • 0m 7f 0y
  • Class 2
  • 31 runners
ITV4
View Course
Buckingham Palace Stakes (Handicap)

Runners: 31 runners

Type: Flat Turf

Surface: Turf

Weather: Sunny

1st
28 (30)
Mezcala

12/1 (Won)

  • Win: £7.70
  • Place: £2.45

Form: 127-13 BF

Last run: 33 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Low-mileage 4yo who has raced mostly over 1m, showing broadly progressive form; comfortably landed the Lincoln consolation race at Doncaster (good to soft) on seasonal debut, then ran creditably at Newbury; gives the impression he'll be fine over this stiff 7f; may do better still.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

7

(14)

12th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:15 Doncaster

Mezcala

9st 7lb

J: George Bass

T: Jack Channon

Lightly raced 4yo who reappeared with a win in the Spring Mile over C&D (good to soft) and won the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm) in June; below best in the International at Ascot (7f, good to firm) in July last time but still of interest judged on previous exploits.

11/2

12th

6

(13)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Ascot

Mezcala

9st 8lb

J: George Bass

T: Jack Channon

Reappeared with a win in the Spring Mile at Doncaster (good to soft) before good third at Newbury (1m, good), and took another step forward to win the Buckingham Palace over C&D (good to firm) at Royal Ascot; this 4yo is clearly progressive and could play another leading role up 4lb for last time.

11/2

14/1

  • Place: £3.75

Form: 761-44 D BF

Last run: 48 days

W: 9st 10lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Low-mileage 4yo who was 3-5 last term, readily winning at Newmarket (7f, good to firm) final start; hindered by racing alone returned to that C&D last time; may still have more to offer and can't be written off; Billy Loughnane (up for first time) is a booking of note.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

3

(7)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 1

15:19 Newmarket (July)

Elarak

9st 3lb

J: David Probert

T: Charles Hills

Low-mileage 4yo who finished close up in valuable 7f handicaps at Royal Ascot and here (both good to firm) on last two appearances; doesn't have that much to find with the principals on this return to Listed company but has never run in a sprint before.

9/2

3rd

3

(15)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:25 Newmarket (July)

Elarak

9st 12lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: Charles Hills

Record of 3-9 includes two wins at the Newmarket tracks; good second, beaten only a neck, in the 7f handicap at Royal Ascot (good to firm) most recently; due to go up 3lb in future; strong contender.

7/2

16/1

  • Place: £3.15

Form: 40-032 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 7lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Versatile as regards ground; has a good record in blinkers and ran well switched to a visor (retained today) last time, finishing only 1l behind The Wizard Of Eye in the Victoria Cup and taking form figures over C&D to 242; solid contender who again has frame possibilities.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

7th

1

(2)

15th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:35 Newbury

Great Acclaim

10st 2lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

7f specialist, not beaten far in Ascot's Victoria Cup (good) and Buckingham Palace Stakes (good to firm) in first half of this year; never able to challenge over same C&D last time; this is less competitive and he should be thereabouts.

9/2

9th

3

(10)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Ascot

Great Acclaim

9st 12lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Merely mid-division behind Aalto in the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket a fortnight ago but this C&D brings out the best in him, as evidenced by this season's close-up finishes in the Victoria Cup (good) and Buckingham Palace Stakes (good to firm); could be bang there now back at Ascot.

16/1

8th

4

(11)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:25 Newmarket (July)

Great Acclaim

9st 9lb

J: Charles Bishop

T: Eve Johnson Houghton

Ran well, only a neck behind Elarak, in the 7f handicap at Royal Ascot to maintain his solid record in headgear; good second in the Victoria Cup the time before; threatening to win a big prize; shortlisted.

6/1

8/1

  • Place: £2.20

Form: 25/60-

Last run: 365 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Trained in France in 2024 then Qatar last year; absent and gelded since meeting traffic issues when 18th of 30 in the 2025 Royal Hunt Cup (attracted support); drops to a bare 7f for first time but the stiff track and likely strong pace will help; market confidence should be heeded.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

4

(11)

13th Sep 2026

Good

0m 6f 111y

Class 2

13:55 Doncaster

Blue Brother

9st 5lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Returned from a year off with fine fourth at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm); not quite at the same level since in major 1m handicaps at Glorious Goodwood or York, but this first attempt at short of 7f is interesting judged on the Royal Ascot performance.

9/1

5th

8

(5)

20th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

15:00 York

Blue Brother

9st 2lb

J: James Doyle

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Returned from a year off with fine fourth in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm); not quite at the same level in the Golden Mile at Glorious Goodwood (good to firm) since and could do with settling better, but he was effective over 1m in France (including on testing ground) and is capable of playing a leading role if at the top of his game.

8/1

8th

11

(8)

31st Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Goodwood

Blue Brother

9st 5lb

J: James Doyle

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Reached a useful standard in France; well supported for handicap attempts at Royal Ascot in 2025 (hindered by traffic issues) and 2026 (stable debut; creditable fourth over 7f) since racing in Britain; may well build on the reappearance effort and show progress; one to consider.

6/1

12/1

Form: 231-21

Last run: 17 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Gained his 2025 novice win over 1m2f but coped well with the return to 1m at Newbury (good to firm) most recently, comfortably making all and giving the impression he'll be as effective dropped back even further in trip; low-mileage 4yo who is improving and is by a sire whose biggest moment came on the straight track at Ascot, for this stable; major claims.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

9

(4)

12th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:15 Doncaster

River King

9st 4lb

J: Sean Levey

T: Richard Hannon

Made all in good style at Newbury (1m, good to firm) in June and creditable fifth of 28 to Mezcala in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm) when last seen; also effective on good to soft; this lightly raced 4yo may still have more to offer and he could be involved.

11/1

5th

21

(14)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

River King

9st 2lb

J: Pat Dobbs

T: Richard Hannon

Gained his 2025 novice win over 1m2f but coped well with the return to 1m at Newbury (good to firm) most recently, comfortably making all and giving the impression he'll be as effective dropped back even further in trip; low-mileage 4yo who is improving and is by a sire whose biggest moment came on the straight track at Ascot, for this stable; major claims.

12/1

Form: 0/39-1 CD

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 11lb

7 yo Colt

OR: 104

Form & Verdict
An ideal type for this race having won the Victoria Cup over C&D in 2024 and 2026, both times off 5lb lower on good ground (lightly raced in between and latest occasion was only his third run for new yard); still favourably treated on historical data; good credentials.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

2

(29)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

The Wizard Of Eye

9st 11lb

J: Neil Callan

T: Tom Clover

An ideal type for this race having won the Victoria Cup over C&D in 2024 and 2026, both times off 5lb lower on good ground (lightly raced in between and latest occasion was only his third run for new yard); still favourably treated on historical data; good credentials.

12/1

1st

6

(26)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

The Wizard Of Eye

9st 8lb

J: Neil Callan

T: Tom Clover

Seen only twice, both times on AW, last term for new yard; made a winning reappearance off current mark in this contest (on good ground) two years ago on first start during a brief spell with Charlie Fellowes; fighting chance in repeat bid, assuming he's in top form.

16/1

3rd

1

(9)

28th Sep 2025

Standard

0m 7f 14y

Class 2

18:45 Newcastle (AW)

The Wizard Of Eye

9st 13lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Tom Clover

Just 1lb higher than for his Victoria Cup win last term (first run for Charlie Fellowes); midfield at Royal Ascot (Group 1) one month later; absent since a disappointing run on soft ground last September; cheekpieces worn on his last 11 starts are left off on today's stable debut (same owners); interesting, especially if backed.

11/2

7th
19 (15)
Mirsky

40/1

Form: 9-3100

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 2lb

7 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Only midfield off current mark in this race 12 months ago, despite arriving at the top of his game; has been in worse form this time, well below par in both starts since landing the Thirsk Hunt Cup; has done all his winning over further than 7f and can be opposed.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

11th

9

(17)

12th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

14:10 Leopardstown

Mirsky

9st 6lb

J: Kieran Shoemark

T: David O’Meara

Multiple winner who returned to form with a second at Ripon (1m, soft; fine on faster) but dropping back in trip doesn't look ideal when he's 0-5 over 7f (3-18 at 1m+) for this yard.

14/1

2nd

3

(6)

31st Aug 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Ripon

Mirsky

9st 7lb

J: Mark Winn

T: David O’Meara

Won this year's Thirsk Hunt Cup off 2lb higher; broadly not in the same form since, even when he was joint-favourite for the Summer Cup back at same venue on penultimate start.

8/1

28/1

Form: -U52P2

Last run: 26 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Finished strongly from a difficult position in 5f contest at York last time and nearly got up, looking in need of a return to further; however, he may find this stiff 7f too much of a stretch and still needs to prove he can win over distances other than 6f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

1

(13)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:10 York

Stratusnine

9st 12lb

J: Harry Davies

T: Hugo Palmer

Form figures of 22216 at York; Wednesday's sixth can be upgraded as he was comfortably on top of those drawn high; returning to 6f should suit and he is proven on slow ground, for all that his best efforts have been on good to firm; high on the list.

12/1

6th

2

(16)

19th Aug 2026

Good

0m 5f 89y

Class 2

13:50 York

Stratusnine

9st 12lb

J: James Doyle

T: Hugo Palmer

Looked one to follow when bolting up at Wolverhampton (6f, AW) in December and, after a series of misfortunes befell him early in the year, things have finally clicked this summer; saw off his 20 rivals over 6f here last month and then went down all guns blazing in the Stewards' Cup; another 3lb higher today but may not have reached his ceiling; high draw could be a negative.

11/1

2nd

13

(5)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

15:35 Goodwood

Stratusnine

9st 5lb

J: David Probert

T: Hugo Palmer

Looked one to follow when bolting up at Wolverhampton (6f, AW) in December; had numerous excuses for a series of subsequent defeats but things finally clicked again at York (6f, good to firm) last week, gamely repelling 20 rivals; 2lb wrong under his penalty but he has Group-race aspirations and shouldn't be passed over lightly.

16/1

Form: -45078 CD

Last run: 35 days

W: 9st 8lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 101

Form & Verdict
Landed the Victoria Cup over C&D in 2022 and hasn't had the smoothest of passages in two attempts in this contest (finished 11th that year and tenth in 2023); losing run is mounting up, however, and he doesn't look particularly solid on his form for current stable.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

4

(8)

12th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

14:10 Leopardstown

Vafortino

9st 12lb

J: James Doyle

T: Charlie Fellowes

Won his 2yo maiden over C&D when based in Ireland; last win was a Meydan Listed race in 2023, but he's kept good company during his losing stretch; remains capable of smart form and might have gone close in a valuable 7f handicap at Galway had he not been caught in a pocket; considered.

7/1

3rd

2

(3)

2nd Aug 2026

Yielding To Soft

0m 7f 0y

16:00 Galway

Vafortino

9st 12lb

J: Ronan Whelan

T: Charlie Fellowes

Well-travelled and well-exposed 8yo is a long time winless; was running in stakes races in Dubai during the winter; held in handicap company in Britain last twice.

20/1

9th

8

(20)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Vafortino

9st 8lb

J: Christophe Soumillon

T: Charlie Fellowes

Landed the Victoria Cup over C&D in 2022 and hasn't had the smoothest of passages in two attempts in this contest (finished 11th that year and tenth in 2023); losing run is mounting up, however, and he doesn't look particularly solid on his form for current stable.

33/1

7/1

Form: 1124-1 D

Last run: 54 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Found a gap on the inside and knuckled down well to justify favouritism at Haydock (good to firm) on sole start this term, taking overall record (AW/turf) to 3-5 and form figures over 7f to 1121; looks the type to improve further and commands respect up just 2lb.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

1

(6)

8th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 212y

Class 3

16:40 Haydock

Cosi Bello

10st 3lb

J: Tom Marquand

T: Charlie Fellowes

Knuckled down well to justify favouritism here on reappearance but hasn't made the expected further progress; seems to stay 1m but all three successes remain at 7f; concedes weight all round; others preferred.

13/2

6th

4

(13)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:39 York

Cosi Bello

9st 8lb

J: Paddy Bradley

T: Charlie Fellowes

Not seen to best effect when mid-division in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm) last time out but prior to that he kept on well to make a winning reappearance at Haydock (7f, good to firm) and this very lightly raced 4yo retains potential, especially back up to 1m.

4/1

11th
25 (17)
Hickory

22/1

Form: 212-06 CD

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 2lb

8 yo Gelding

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Has plenty of good form at Ascot and his most recent course effort (when bidding for a second win in the Victoria Cup) can be excused as the race didn't pan out favourably for him; however, he has a difficult-looking mark to overcome in this first Royal Ascot attempt.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

1st

7

(11)

4th Sep 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:48 Ascot

Hickory

9st 5lb

J: Saffie Osborne

T: Jamie Osborne

Won on this card 12 months ago and he was winning here for the third time when scoring over C&D (good to firm) in July; ran pretty well in fifth at Newmarket three weeks ago and could play a leading role back here.

10/1

5th

2

(5)

14th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

19:37 Newmarket (July)

Hickory

10st 2lb

J: William Carver

T: Jamie Osborne

Has a patchy profile but he got back near best with a strong-finishing success in a Class 2 handicap at Ascot (1m, good to firm) last month; that was in a bunch finish but he's only 2lb higher and is a big player if he can repeat that form.

7/2

12

(4)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 213y

Class 2

16:30 Ascot

Hickory

9st 4lb

T: Jamie Osborne

6/1

Form: 20-116 CD

Last run: 104 days

W: 9st 10lb

6 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Campaigned at Meydan this year for new yard, winning two handicaps then not disgraced in Group 3; two attempts at this prize comprise a ready success off 4lb lower in 2024 (good to firm; recorded peak RPR) and poor effort (in cheekpieces) last year; likely player provided he's in top form.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

6th

1

(4)

31st Aug 2026

Good

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Ripon

English Oak

10st 4lb

J: Harry Vigors

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Two wins at Meydan for current yard; best effort since returned to British soil when second in small field at Hamilton; rather weighted to the hilt on 2026 form but Harry Vigors takes off a useful 5lb.

8/1

16th

5

(22)

31st Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

15:00 Goodwood

English Oak

9st 9lb

J: Faleh Bughenaim

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Completed a Meydan double early this year; came up short in the Royal Ascot handicap he'd won in 2024 but ran respectably, behind an unbeaten rival, at Hamilton most recently; has to overcome the widest draw returned to a bigger stage.

40/1

2nd

1

(2)

16th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 68y

Class 2

15:25 Hamilton

English Oak

10st 4lb

J: Jack Nicholls

T: Hamad Al Jehani

High-class handicap form at 6f to 1m on a range of surfaces and he was up against it when second to a progressive winner in this race last year; has since won two handicaps at Meydan for new yard and perhaps felt the lack of a recent run when mid-division in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot last month; leading player.

7/1

33/1

Form: 3-6602

Last run: 48 days

W: 9st 3lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Has gained all wins on Newcastle AW, the most recent on finals day last year; however, ran well at Ascot (1m, good to firm) returned to turf last time, taking form figures in this sphere to 3232; seems effective over 7f and may remain competitive.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

5th

13

(12)

12th Sep 2026

Good To Soft

1m 0f 0y

Class 2

16:15 Doncaster

Storm Star

9st 2lb

J: David Probert

T: Andrew Balding

4-11 on AW as opposed to 0-6 on turf; second at Ascot (1m, good to firm) in May but not at the same level at Ascot/Newmarket on his two runs since.

20/1

8th

1

(7)

14th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 0f 0y

Class 3

19:37 Newmarket (July)

Storm Star

10st 2lb

J: Alfie Redman

T: Andrew Balding

All four wins have been on Newcastle AW but he's still lightly raced on turf; finished in mid-division in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot (7f) last time but he was runner-up in a Class 3 there (1m, good to firm) on his penultimate run; has claims if he can recapture that form and he's in the mix back up in trip.

13/2

11

(3)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 213y

Class 2

16:30 Ascot

Storm Star

9st 4lb

T: Andrew Balding

11/1

Form: 6-4155 D

Last run: 97 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Quite a useful sort but has a stronger record at Meydan than on home soil and his limitations were rather exposed, even allowing for a tricky draw, in the Britannia at this meeting 12 months ago; wears first-time tongue-tie; something to prove back in a British race.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

7

(6)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

13:40 Ascot

The Fingal Raven

9st 1lb

J: William Carver

T: Jamie Osborne

His sole turf success came at Meydan (1m, good) but he ran a cracker, amid traffic issues, when third at Glorious Goodwood (7f, good to firm) in July and softening ground was no use to him back over that C&D last Saturday; a big run can't be ruled out.

40/1

9th

6

(14)

29th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:00 Goodwood

The Fingal Raven

9st 1lb

J: William Carver

T: Jamie Osborne

Seems to need good ground or firmer; gained his only turf success at Meydan but ran well, amid traffic issues, at Glorious Goodwood (7f) most recently; another good effort is not ruled out.

20/1

Form: 230-15 D BF

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Filly

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Developing into a useful 7f filly and did well to win at Chester (good) on seasonal debut, having been drawn wide and come from quite a difficult position; below-par favourite at Epsom on softer ground since but it may be best to forgive that effort; still of interest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

7

(11)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:10 York

Dance In The Storm

9st 7lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Andrew Balding

Has raced exclusively at 7f, winning four of her 12 starts; overcame a wide draw and trouble in running to win at Chester (7f, good) three weeks ago, showing a bright turn of foot and having more in hand than the 1l winning margin might suggest; up 4lb ahead of this belated first 6f run but the way she travels through her races offers serious encouragement that she will improve for it; tops the list.

5/1

1st

5

(10)

2nd Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 1y

Class 2

15:52 Chester

Dance In The Storm

9st 11lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Andrew Balding

Produced a smart turn of foot to defy a wide draw in a C&D handicap in May; unplaced twice since but her potential hasn't been dimmed, looking stretched by the trip on rain-softened ground at Epsom and then doing best of her group at Royal Ascot; drawn widest again but this mark is unlikely to prove beyond her.

5/2

17th

15

(2)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Dance In The Storm

9st 3lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Andrew Balding

Developing into a useful 7f filly and did well to win at Chester (good) on seasonal debut, having been drawn wide and come from quite a difficult position; below-par favourite at Epsom on softer ground since but it may be best to forgive that effort; still of interest.

10/1

18th
12 (18)
Apiarist

22/1

Form: -41306 D

Last run: 47 days

W: 9st 5lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 98

Form & Verdict
Eye-catcher, amid traffic issues, in the Thirsk Hunt Cup last time; form over C&D comprises a respectable eighth (off current mark) in this contest last year and creditable third (did well having been hampered) later in 2025; still has a much better strike-rate on AW than on turf, however.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

5

(10)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:39 York

Apiarist

9st 8lb

J: Tom Eaves

T: Kevin Ryan

Inconsistent sort who made it 1-20 on turf (that grass win came here in 2yo campaign) when well beaten at Royal Ascot last month; however, two starts ago he was a close sixth in the Thirsk Hunt Cup (1m, good to firm) when he was denied a clear run, and he's not ruled out.

7/1

18th

12

(18)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Apiarist

9st 5lb

J: Jack Callan

T: Kevin Ryan

Eye-catcher, amid traffic issues, in the Thirsk Hunt Cup last time; form over C&D comprises a respectable eighth (off current mark) in this contest last year and creditable third (did well having been hampered) later in 2025; still has a much better strike-rate on AW than on turf, however.

22/1

6th

4

(15)

2nd May 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 218y

Class 2

14:40 Thirsk

Apiarist

9st 7lb

J: Jack Callan

T: Kevin Ryan

Three fine efforts on AW to start the year but his run of good form came to a halt when well behind Blue Rc at Newcastle over Easter; acts on turf but has a much better strike-rate on AW; drawn widest.

20/1

66/1

Form: 441609 D

Last run: 46 days

W: 9st 1lb

7 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Effective at 7f earlier in career but seems to need much further now and gained last three wins over 1m4f/1m6f (stays 2m); still has a much better strike-rate on AW than on turf in any case and looks unlikely to figure in this hot prize, back down sharply in distance.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

5

(2)

4th Jul 2026

Good

1m 1f 209y

Class 2

17:22 Sandown

Brasil Power

9st 11lb

J: Megan Smith

T: George Boughey

Back on the mark he defied over 1m6f at Wolverhampton in March but recent efforts haven't been obviously encouraging, for all the 7f trip of the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot is almost certainly too short for him these days.

33/1

19th

27

(27)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Brasil Power

9st 1lb

J: Grace McEntee

T: George Boughey

Effective at 7f earlier in career but seems to need much further now and gained last three wins over 1m4f/1m6f (stays 2m); still has a much better strike-rate on AW than on turf in any case and looks unlikely to figure in this hot prize, back down sharply in distance.

66/1

9th

6

(11)

3rd May 2026

Good To Firm

1m 6f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Newmarket

Brasil Power

9st 1lb

J: Billy Loughnane

T: George Boughey

Moving up to 1m4f worked well in December and comparable form at 1m6f/2m since, including another win three starts back; he's come up a bit short in warmer races this year, though, including behind Align The Stars at Kempton, and none of his turf form (admittedly at up to 1m2f) is close to this mark.

25/1

Form: 249-10 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 3lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Record is 3-10; gelded prior to reappearance success at Kempton (7f, AW; looked better than ever) and had an excuse (raced in unfavoured group) when never landing a blow in the Victoria Cup over C&D since; could go well, provided this race pans out better.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

(4)

29th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

16:05 Sandown

Defence Minister

10st 0lb

J: Callum Rodriguez

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Best efforts at 7f, including on this course; signs of return to form when close seventh of 20 at Glorious Goodwood, having to wait for room; handles good to soft ground; should be thereabouts off the same mark.

10/1

7th

2

(13)

29th Jul 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

17:40 Goodwood

Defence Minister

9st 10lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Finished a fairly close fourth in this last year (good) when the pick of James Doyle from three Wathnan runners; had been gelded before taking a 7f handicap at Kempton (AW) on his reappearance in the spring but it's been downhill in two subsequent starts; hopes pinned on his second visit to Goodwood sparking a revival.

25/1

20th

16

(8)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Defence Minister

9st 3lb

J: James McDonald

T: Hamad Al Jehani

Record is 3-10; gelded prior to reappearance success at Kempton (7f, AW; looked better than ever) and had an excuse (raced in unfavoured group) when never landing a blow in the Victoria Cup over C&D since; could go well, provided this race pans out better.

25/1

16/1

Form: 72214-

Last run: 232 days

W: 9st 10lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Steadily progressive and has a largely solid record; won well in his last handicap attempt, then ran well in Listed grade; gelded since; has C&D form and looks an interesting contender on seasonal debut, with further improvement a possibility; market support should be heeded.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

3

(4)

5th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 7f 212y

Class 1

13:25 Haydock

Fondo Blanco

9st 5lb

J: Ray Dawson

T: Roger Varian

Dual winner on ground slower than good, including a C&D handicap last September; back on good to soft he chased home a handicap snip last weekend at Goodwood; he'll give his running but that's unlikely to be good enough.

18/1

2nd

2

(8)

29th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:00 Goodwood

Fondo Blanco

9st 9lb

J: Jack Mitchell

T: Roger Varian

Progressed into a useful sort last term but has a doubt over current form, having posted two duck eggs (both at Ascot) this season; best watched unless the market suggests a revival is likely.

25/1

Form: 6-0001 D

Last run: 21 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Proved well down the pecking order at Ballydoyle, notwithstanding two wins (7f/1m2f); comfortably on top in Ovrevoll handicap (8.5f) in latest start for a Norwegian stable that he has joined this year; however, faces a markedly harder assignment in this field.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

15th

1

(1)

1st Aug 2026

Good To Firm

1m 1f 11y

Class 3

17:20 Goodwood

Rock Of Cashel

9st 12lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Niels Petersen

Ex-Ballydoyle 4yo who has been running for Norwegian yard this year; won in Norway in May but struggled in handicaps at Meydan early this year and was well beaten in the Buckingham Palace at Royal Ascot in June (third of six in far-side group); others are preferred.

100/1

22th

24

(1)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Rock Of Cashel

9st 2lb

J: Jamie Spencer

T: Niels Petersen

Proved well down the pecking order at Ballydoyle, notwithstanding two wins (7f/1m2f); comfortably on top in Ovrevoll handicap (8.5f) in latest start for a Norwegian stable that he has joined this year; however, faces a markedly harder assignment in this field.

33/1

4

(7)

19th Oct 2025

Yielding

1m 0f 0y

14:25 Leopardstown

Rock Of Cashel

9st 6lb

J: Wayne Lordan

T: A P O’Brien

Highly-tried 3yo and often out of his depth but did win 4-runner 1m2f Navan contest in July when dropped in grade; tame effort in handicap company latest and now drops back to 1m; opposable.

12/1

Form: 1-7248 D

Last run: 12 days

W: 9st 10lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 103

Form & Verdict
Failed to beat a rival in Group race last time; seemed to run well in the Victoria Cup over C&D in his most recent handicap attempt but was always favourably positioned the way the race went and needs to prove he can back up the form; still on career-high mark.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

10th

2

(1)

5th Sep 2026

Good

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:35 Ascot

Golden Mind

9st 13lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Couldn't set your watch by him but he's a smart performer on his good days, as when beating 21 rivals at Doncaster (6f, heavy) last November; finished fourth in the Victoria Cup here (7f, good) in May, and he is 5lb lower today, but there hasn't been much to cheer since then.

33/1

19th

3

(6)

22nd Aug 2026

Good To Soft

0m 6f 0y

Class 2

16:10 York

Golden Mind

9st 8lb

J: Oisin Orr

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Inconsistent but he is a smart performer, as when beating his 21 rivals at Doncaster last November (6f, heavy); raced exclusively at 7f since, with mixed results, but this mark isn't beyond him and a big run could be on the cards back down in distance.

50/1

15th

1

(14)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Ascot

Golden Mind

9st 12lb

J: Ryan Sexton

T: Richard & Peter Fahey

Below his best on his last two runs, most recently over C&D at the Royal meeting; has some good C&D form, however, such as when fourth in both this race last year and the Victoria Cup in May; not ruled out each-way.

50/1

Form: 185-31 D

Last run: 12 days

W: 9st 7lb

5 yo Colt

OR: 100

Form & Verdict
Arrives in top form having won really well under Zac Lloyd at Doncaster (7f, good to firm) last time, building on his reappearance effort and taking record in cheekpieces to 4-10; that sets him up perfectly for a crack at a bigger prize and further progress is not out of the question; shortlisted.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

8th

2

(1)

20th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

15:00 York

Arctic Dawn

9st 10lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Made it four wins from his last ten starts when scoring at Newmarket (7f, good to firm) recently; on a lofty mark under a 6lb penalty and it remains to be seen if he's just as good over 1m, but there can be optimism in that regard and he's clearly progressive; has run well on soft/good to soft.

25/1

1st

1

(2)

8th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:40 Newmarket (July)

Arctic Dawn

10st 0lb

J: Hector Crouch

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

Has developed into a useful 7f handicapper; excusable effort at Royal Ascot is flanked by good performances, namely a ready success at Doncaster and sixth-place finish in the International at Ascot; still on career-high mark but can't be dismissed.

5/1

6th

5

(7)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Ascot

Arctic Dawn

9st 10lb

J: Colin Keane

T: Daniel & Claire Kubler

5yo who produced a career-best performance with authoritative win at Doncaster (7f, good to firm) last month; following a 9lb rise he was well beaten over C&D (good to firm) at the Royal meeting 12 days later, finishing fourth of six in the unfavoured far-side group, but he's not written off.

40/1

12/1

Form: 815-11 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 9lb

5 yo Filly

OR: 102

Form & Verdict
Campaigned mainly on good/firmer; progressive and brings impressive stats, being 9-21 overall, 2-2 this season, 6-10 over 7f and 4-5 under William Buick; well on top in big-field handicap at Newmarket on reappearance and followed up in Lingfield Group 3; lots to like about her.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

19th

1

(17)

13th Sep 2026

Good

0m 7f 6y

Class 1

15:05 Doncaster

Royal Velvet

9st 7lb

J: Cieren Fallon

T: William Knight

Won the Group 3 Chartwell at Lingfield (7f, good to firm) in May; not at the same level since and, while her fifth in the Group 3 Oak Tree at Goodwood (7f, good to firm) in July was a step back in the right direction, she may again be vulnerable under a 3lb penalty; unproven on slow ground.

20/1

5th

2

(5)

29th Jul 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

15:00 Goodwood

Royal Velvet

9st 9lb

J: William Buick

T: William Knight

5yo who was a big improver at the start of this season, winning a handicap at Newmarket (7f, good) then the Group 3 Chartwell Stakes at Lingfield (7f, good to firm); however, it appears as though she may have gone off the boil on her last two outings; carries a 3lb penalty this afternoon.

14/1

66/1

Form: 8550-0 D

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 2lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 95

Form & Verdict
Proved rather difficult to place last term after a reappearance win that did major damage to his mark; perhaps needed the run when 40-1 in the Victoria Cup over C&D on stable/seasonal debut but is best watched unless the market signals suggest he'll take a step forward.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

3

(10)

29th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:00 Goodwood

Pellitory

9st 6lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Record is 4-19; went close in competitive race at York in July; flattered by the winning margin at Haydock (7f, good) last time but may remain competitive back up 4lb; peak mark was higher.

16/1

1st

2

(1)

8th Aug 2026

Good

0m 6f 212y

Class 3

15:34 Haydock

Pellitory

10st 1lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Three-time 7f turf winner who was close to career-best form when second of 17 at York (7f, good to firm) last month but he weakened to finish well adrift of Crimson Spirit at Goodwood last week.

15/2

16th

5

(16)

29th Jul 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

17:40 Goodwood

Pellitory

9st 9lb

J: Daniel Tudhope

T: David O’Meara

Three-time 7f turf winner who finished eighth of 16 in the 3yo handicap over C&D at this meeting last year for James Owen; had been gelded before finishing down the field in first two starts for this yard but was close to career-best form when second of 17 at York (7f, good to firm) 19 days ago; that was a bunch finish but 1lb nudge still looks reasonable; considered despite tricky stall.

10/1

25/1

Form: -12134 D

Last run: 47 days

W: 9st 4lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 97

Form & Verdict
Gelded prior to showing improvement and performing solidly (12134) over 7f-1m1f this year, mostly on AW, including a good effort on finals day at Newcastle; respectable fourth at Newmarket returned to turf and again looks likely to give his running.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

2nd

5

(8)

5th Sep 2026

Soft

0m 7f 212y

Class 1

13:25 Haydock

The Lost King

9st 5lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Andrew Balding

Strike-rate of 5-13, with four of those wins coming in eight races since gelded; tackles his first Group race after back-to-back wins in 1m handicaps at York, the latest gained in convincing fashion on good to soft (unraced on slower); with the wind in his sails he's not easily dismissed.

7/1

1st

5

(15)

20th Aug 2026

Good

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

15:00 York

The Lost King

9st 6lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: Andrew Balding

Added to his two AW wins early this year when scoring over C&D (good to firm) last month; 6lb higher in hotter race today but this lightly raced 4yo is progressive; unraced on slow turf but dam's family excelled on it.

10/1

1st

7

(4)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 192y

Class 2

14:39 York

The Lost King

9st 7lb

J: P J McDonald

T: Andrew Balding

Well beaten at Royal Ascot (7f, good to firm) last month but he was in good heart previously, finishing fourth at Newmarket (1m1f, good to firm) two starts ago where the trip appeared to stretch him; possible player.

7/1

33/1

Form: 35-067

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Four-time 6f winner who ran respectably in first-time cheekpieces (retained today) in the Victoria Cup over C&D most recently, albeit taking record for current yard to 0-5 and failing to improve for a return to 7f.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

3rd

1

(1)

12th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 3

15:00 Salisbury

So Darn Hot

10st 0lb

J: Kieran Shoemark

T: Ed Walker

Progressive 2yo/3yo; he has faced some stiff tasks for his new yard this year and has come up short; his sights are lowered here, however, and 6f on fast ground won't faze him; respected now down into a 0-90 with headgear dispensed with.

7/1

5th

5

(3)

10th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 6f 0y

Class 3

16:55 Ascot

So Darn Hot

9st 13lb

J: Kieran Shoemark

T: Ed Walker

Four wins at 6f for previous yard but he was far from disgraced when seventh of 28 in 7f Victoria Cup here (good; first-time cheekpieces) in May; drawn on the wrong side when he finished last at the Royal meeting but he's dropped to a handy mark and shouldn't be discounted on this return to 6f.

20/1

Form: 4/9-01 D

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 3lb

6 yo Gelding

OR: 96

Form & Verdict
Possibly best on ground softer than good; pulled too hard over 1m at Ascot on stable/seasonal debut; settled better dropped back to 7f at Epsom on Oaks day and prevailed by neck, returning to form and taking record over this trip to 3-5; further success is plausible.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

50/1

Form: 156-07

Last run: 13 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Possibly needs ground softer than good; successful three times (7.5f/1m) in France but has been out of the money in two British runs, albeit not disgraced at Epsom (8.5f) latest; doesn't look as if he's about to land a handicap of this nature.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

33/1

Form: 065-97 D

Last run: 33 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Gelding

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; likely to benefit from this drop back to 7f, having raced too freely over 1m at Newbury (on debut for another new yard) last time; however, he otherwise looks far from solid on his form since scoring three times (including at Group 3 level) in France in 2024.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price
No Results Found

Form: 324-43 D BF

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; dual 7f winner who has a solid record and may rate higher still; ran well at Newbury (1m) on reappearance then raced further away from the near rail than ideal when beaten favourite, albeit not disgraced, at Lingfield (7.5f); tongue-tie is now applied; remains of interest.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

4th

1

(3)

15th Aug 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 1

15:10 Newbury

Back In Black

9st 8lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: James Fanshawe

Useful handicapper, runner-up in the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket (7f, good to firm) in July; however, well beaten at Ascot since and now faces a much higher calibre of opposition.

33/1

10th

8

(3)

25th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:55 Ascot

Back In Black

9st 4lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: James Fanshawe

Admirably consistent in defeat this term and he was a close second to Aalto in the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket (7f, good to firm) recently; races off the same mark today (due a 2lb rise) and could again be thereabouts.

13/2

2nd

9

(1)

11th Jul 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

15:25 Newmarket (July)

Back In Black

9st 3lb

J: Daniel Muscutt

T: James Fanshawe

Reliable sort, this year over 7.5f/1m since being gelded; second on Newcastle AW with tongue-tie fitted last time; has gained both wins over a bare 7f; strong claims back down in distance.

9/2

9/1

Form: 5117-0 D BF

Last run: 40 days

W: 9st 1lb

4 yo Colt

OR: 94

Form & Verdict
Reserve; hindered by traffic issues in his final start of an otherwise progressive 2025 season that featured a Glorious Goodwood win (7f, good to soft); disappointing favourite in the Victoria Cup over C&D on reappearance but has possibilities if a physical tweak (gelded since) works a treat.
Place /
No / Draw
Date / Going /
Distance / Class
Time + Course Horse + Weight
Jockey / Trainer
Verdict Starting price

9th

2

(2)

25th Jun 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 3

12:45 Newmarket (July)

Mudbir

9st 8lb

J: William Buick

T: John & Thady Gosden

The winner of three of his seven starts; sent off the red-hot favourite for Ascot's Victoria Cup last month but he failed to fire, finishing 22nd of the 28 runners; gelded soon after and he remains capable of better.

5/2

32

(9)

18th Jun 2026

Good To Firm

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

18:10 Ascot

Mudbir

9st 1lb

T: John & Thady Gosden

Reserve; hindered by traffic issues in his final start of an otherwise progressive 2025 season that featured a Glorious Goodwood win (7f, good to soft); disappointing favourite in the Victoria Cup over C&D on reappearance but has possibilities if a physical tweak (gelded since) works a treat.

9/1

22th

16

(19)

9th May 2026

Good

0m 7f 0y

Class 2

14:20 Ascot

Mudbir

9st 4lb

J: Oisin Murphy

T: John & Thady Gosden

Well-bred colt whose record of 3-6 overall and 2-3 in handicaps (7f) features a narrow win at Glorious Goodwood; hindered by traffic issues at same venue when last seen (effort best forgiven); cheekpieces worn that day are retained; beat Defence Minister by half a length at Sandown last July; still open to further progress and remains of strong interest.

11/2

Non-runners

Room Service

+o+e Accumulators

Payout
Exacta £104.60
Straight Forecast £57.73
Tricast £664.88
Trifecta £993.90

Selections

NEWMARKET:

Cosi Bello

RP RATINGS:

Dance In The Storm

The Guardian:

Blue Brother

POSTDATA:

Royal Velvet

D Express:

Pellitory

SPOTLIGHT:

River King

Daily Mirror:

Colombier

The Star:

The Wizard Of Eye

TOPSPEED:

Vafortino

The Times:

Cosi Bello

Daily Record:

Cosi Bello

LAMBOURN:

Dance In The Storm

Telegraph:

Dance In The Storm

Daily Mail:

Blue Brother

The Sun:

Royal Velvet