Hollie Doyle's Top Horses to Watch in 2026: Derby Contenders and International Stars

Sky Sports Racing ambassador Hollie Doyle shares her top picks for the 2026 flat season, featuring a mix of promising newcomers and established stars. Among her selections is a five-year-old from Richard Hannon's stable, who has shown significant improvement since autumn, winning a valuable handicap at Ascot and the Listed Cammidge Stakes at Doncaster. Another notable mention is a debut winner at Chelmsford City, a big son of New Bay, who is expected to make a smooth transition into group company. A three-year-old from Aga Khan Studs, who made a stunning debut at Saint-Cloud, is also tipped for greatness, despite being a gelding. Other horses on Doyle's radar include Aidan O'Brien's son of Wootton Bassett, who made a strong claim for the Classic after his performance in the Group 1 Futurity Trophy, and William Haggas's Kingman son, who has shown promise despite being carried off line in his last race. A filly purchased for 1.7m gns, closely related to My Oberon and My Prospero, is another exciting prospect, with an entry in the Irish Oaks. Doyle also highlights the potential of a Havana Grey son, who has done well physically since his last run, and a daughter of Starman, who was impressive in her maiden win and subsequent Group 2 Rockfel start. A Sea The Stars son, who made a spectacular winning debut at Newcastle, and a Night Of Thunder son, who won the Group 2 Joel Stakes, complete Doyle's list of horses to watch in 2026.