Friday promises a packed racing schedule, featuring flat contests from both Ascot and Newcastle, all broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The centerpiece of the day is a high‑profile renewal of the Longines Sagaro Stakes, a key trial for the Gold Cup, which pits the seasoned Sweet William against the promising Caballo De Mar in a nine‑horse field. John and Thady Gosden’s Sweet William entered the season with a strong résumé, having repeated his Doncaster Cup triumph last year and then finishing a close second to Trawlerman at Ascot. That recent form makes him the favourite in this contest, yet the fact that he is making his first start after a lengthy spell could expose some vulnerability.
Sweet William’s stamina and proven staying ability are unquestionable, but a long break sometimes leaves a horse a little rust‑prone, especially when facing fresh competition. On the other side of the paddock sits George Scott’s Caballo De Mar, who arrives with race‑fit credentials after finishing runner‑up in the Dubai Gold Cup just 34 days ago. Caballo De Mar also boasts a Group One victory in last season’s Prix du Cadran, a win that earned him a penalty for this race. His recent high‑level exertion suggests he will be sharp, and the added penalty only underscores the respect he commands among the field.
Also worth watching are Tabletalk and Tarriance, two horses whose performances at Meydan have been closely matched. Both have yet to be fully tested over extended staying distances, leaving a degree of uncertainty about how they will handle the Sagaro’s demanding trip.
Their form suggests they could be the dark horses capable of upsetting the more established contenders. The day also features a competitive Group Three Commonwealth Cup trial.
Wise Approach, the recent Middle Park victor, will be carrying a weight penalty across the board, which could level the playing field and give other three‑year‑olds a genuine chance. Charlie Appleby’s three‑year‑old, who capped a brilliant 2025 campaign with a hard‑fought win in the Newmarket Group One, is expected to be the horse to beat, especially with veteran jockey William Buick aboard.
Aidan O'Brien’s Brussels, who finished a narrow three‑quarters of a length behind the favourite, is another solid contender. With Ryan Moore in the saddle, Brussels offers a rock‑solid place bet, given his consistency and the top‑class training behind him.
Coppull, the Group Two Richmond Stakes winner at Goodwood, was only a short head behind Brussels in their recent Newmarket clash. Trainer Clive Cox, who guided Jasour to victory in this race back in 2024, rates Coppull as a major player, and he will be partnered by the talented Rossa Ryan. Beyond the main events, the Listed Paradise Stakes presents an open field with eight runners, including Remmooz, Jonquil, and Rashabar. Remmooz, trained by Owen Burrows, showed promise last summer by winning four of six starts and finishing a respectable fourth in the Jersey Stakes at Ascot.
His recent victory over Volterra in Listed company at Newbury suggests he could thrive when stepped up to a mile, a distance that may unlock further improvement. Jonquil, after a series of challenging assignments since his Greenham win last spring, narrowly missed a Group One triumph in the French Guineas a year ago.
Although he under‑performed in Abu Dhabi in February, the colt will be looking to rebound under the guidance of Colin Keane. Rashabar, who finished second to Jonquil in the Greenham, endured a frustrating 2025 campaign but showed flashes of ability on several occasions.
Dropping back to a mile could suit him well and provide a fresh opportunity to showcase his talent. The program continues with a series of supporting races. At 2:00 p.m.
at Ascot, a two‑year‑old trial will see Brocklesby’s top finishers A Bear Affair and Dance A Jig take on debut winner Adaay Of Scarlett. Later, at 4:55 p.m., a three‑year‑old heat offers So Regal a chance to excite the Gosden‑Moore partnership.
At 5:30 p.m., a strong 0‑95 handicap features multiple contenders, including Greek Order, Dosman, and Angel Hunter, while Saytarr aims for a four‑run win. Across the Atlantic, the Grade One Kentucky Oaks at Churchill Downs will feature the Ashland Stakes top‑two finishers Percy’s Bar and Zany in a much‑anticipated clash. The same venue will host the Grade One La Troienne Stakes later in the day.
In France, Saint‑Cloud presents the Group Two Prix du Muguet at 2:50 p.m., where Hugo Palmer’s Seagulls Eleven joins a respectable field, followed by an excellent Group Three over a mile and a quarter at 3:25 p.m., where Juddmont‑owned filly Sunly returns under trainer Francis‑Henri Graffard. Newcastle’s card includes a 5:53 p.m. race where last‑time winner The Cursor will have obvious claims, and at 6:30 p.m., Haggas‑trained Eklleem aims to improve on his previous effort, while well‑bred Eljowhary makes his debut. For racing enthusiasts who want to stay up‑to‑date, Sky Sports Racing provides the latest news, interviews, and feature stories on mobile devices, ensuring fans never miss a beat.
Whether you’re tracking the long‑distance duel between Sweet William and Caballo De Mar, or following the emerging talent in the Paradise Stakes, the day’s program offers a rich tapestry of stories and opportunities for both seasoned punters and casual fans alike.