Friday promises a packed programme of flat racing across two of Britain’s premier courses – Ascot and Newcastle – with the action broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The highlight of the day will be a high‑profile renewal of the Longines Sagaro Stakes, a key trial for the Gold Cup, featuring a head‑to‑head between the seasoned Sweet William and the talented Caballo De Mar among a total of nine contenders. John and Thady Gosden’s veteran Sweet William entered the season with a strong finish last year, adding a second Doncaster Cup to his résumé before attempting to close the gap on Trawlerman at Ascus.
That recent form makes him the favourite in the Sagaro Stakes, but the race will be his first start after a long lay‑off, which could expose any rust that may have built up during his time away from the track. On the opposite side of the paddock sits George Scott’s Caballo De Mar, a horse that combines recent race fitness with proven staying ability. He was a close second in the Dubai Gold Cup just 34 days ago, and his victory in last season’s Prix du Cadran adds a Group One credential to his record. Even though he carries a Group One penalty, his recent high‑level performance suggests he will be a serious challenger to Sweet William’s dominance.
Also worth watching are Tabletalk and Tarriance, two runners whose form in the Meydan circuit is closely matched. Both have yet to be fully tested over extended distances, meaning they could be the dark horses of the contest if they manage to stay on the longer staying trips. The day’s programme also includes a competitive Group Three Commonwealth Cup trial.
Wise Approach, the recent Middle Park victor, will be giving away weight to his rivals, a factor that could make the race a true test of class rather than sheer speed. Charlie Appleby’s three‑year‑old, who capped a stellar 2025 campaign with a hard‑fought win in the Newmarket Group One, is expected to lead the field under the experienced hands of William Buick.
Aidan O’Brien will have Brussels in the mix, a horse that finished a short three‑quarters of a length behind the favourite in a recent outing. With Ryan Moore aboard, Brussels is a reliable place‑bet that could also pick up valuable prize money if the race unfolds in his favour. Coppull, a Group Two Richmond Stakes winner at Goodwood, was a short‑head behind Brussels at Newmarket and will be guided by Clive Cox, who previously secured a Group Two triumph with Jasour in 2024.
Coppull is rated as a major contender, especially with Rossa Ryan in the saddle. The Listed Paradise Stakes will feature an open field of eight, with Remmooz, Jonquil and Rashabar among the most talked‑about names. Owen Burrows’ Remmooz has shown steady improvement, winning four of six starts last summer and placing fourth in the Jersey Stakes at Ascot in June.
His recent victory in a Listed race at Newbury, where he beat Volterra, suggests that the step up to a mile could unlock further potential. Jonquil, after a solid return to the Greenham Stakes last spring, narrowly missed a Group One victory in the French Guineas a year ago. Although his performance in Abu Dhabi in February was disappointing, he 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 for the Paradise Stakes could suit his running style and give him a chance to end the season on a high note. Additional highlights on the card include: - 2.00 Ascot – A two‑year‑old trial featuring Brocklesby’s first‑ and second‑place finishers, A Bear Affair and Dance A Jig, who will meet the debut winner Adaay Of Scarlett. - 4.55 Ascot – A three‑year‑old heat where So Regal could provide an exciting partnership for the Gosden‑Moore combination. - 5.30 Ascot – A strong 0‑95 race with multiple potential winners including Greek Order, Dosman and Angel Hunter.
Saytarr will be aiming for a four‑timer. - Churchill Downs – Grade One Kentucky Oaks and Ashland Stakes featuring a one‑two finish for Percy’s Bar and Zany.
- 11.56 Churchill Downs – Grade One La Troienne Stakes. - 2.50 Saint‑Cloud – Group Two Prix Du Muguet with Hugo Palmer’s Seagulls Eleven among a respectable field. - 3.25 Saint‑Cloud – An excellent Group Three over a mile and a quarter where Juddmonte filly Sunly returns under Francis‑Henri Graffard. - 5.53 Newcastle – The last‑time winner The Cursor will have obvious claims.
- 6.30 Newcastle – Haggas runner Eklleem looks to improve, while well‑bred Eljowhary makes his debut. Racing enthusiasts can stay up‑to‑date with the latest news, interviews and feature stories by following Sky Sports Racing on their mobile devices. The network continues to provide comprehensive coverage, ensuring fans never miss a beat of the action across the UK and beyond.