The upcoming King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes has become the focus of the latest Weekend Winners broadcast, where presenter Kate Tracey sat down with pundits Declan Rix and Sam Boswell to dissect the field and gauge the odds. The race, a marquee event in the British flat racing calendar, will feature nine contenders on Saturday, each with a distinct storyline and a chance to etch their name into racing history.
At the heart of the discussion is last year’s victor, Calandagan, who returns to Ascot with the aim of replicating his triumph. The colt secured his previous win by edging out the talented filly Kalpana in a tightly contested finish, showcasing a turn of foot that proved decisive over the classic 12‑furlong distance. Calandagan’s campaign this season has been a mixed bag; after a disappointing run at Epsom earlier in the year, he has bounced back to claim several respectable placings, suggesting that the horse remains in top form despite the brief setback. Joining Calandagan from Japan is Masquerade Ball, a horse that narrowly missed out on victory in the Japan Cup when the Aga Khan’s champion held on by the slimmest of margins.
The Japanese runner’s connections have expressed a clear desire for revenge, and the Ascot trip presents a perfect platform to turn the tables. The colt’s recent performances indicate a blend of stamina and acceleration that could prove lethal over the 12‑furlong trip, especially if the ground holds up as a true test of staying power.
Aidan O'Brien, the prolific Irish trainer, will line up a quartet of horses, headlined by the 2024 Irish Derby winner Benvenuto Cellini and the 2025 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe runner‑up Minnie Hauk. Both have demonstrated a high cruising speed and the ability to handle a fast pace, making them strong candidates for a race that is likely to be run at a genuine gallop. O'Brien’s stable also includes two other runners who could act as pace‑setters or provide a tactical advantage, adding another layer of intrigue to the race dynamics. Adding to the field is Goliath, the 2024 King George champion, who will attempt to reclaim his title under the experienced hands of jockey Christophe Soumillon.
Goliath’s previous victory was marked by a powerful finish and a clear display of class, and his connections are confident that the horse still possesses the requisite stamina and speed to repeat that performance. During the interview, the pundits debated how the race might unfold.
One commentator noted, "Last year’s race seemed tailor‑made for Calandagan; the fast ground and the 12‑furlong distance allowed him to settle into a comfortable gallop, essentially playing to his strengths. Ballydoyle’s tactics may have been off‑balance, but this year the scenario could be very different. With the action likely shifting towards Lambourn, we could see a more genuine test for both Minnie Hauk and Benvenuto Cellini." He continued, "If the pace is honest and the ground holds, Calandagan could be stretched into a longer, sustained run, which might expose any limitations in his gear change. Still, he remains the classiest horse in the field—older, stronger, and still performing at a high level, despite that one off‑day at Epsom." The discussion then turned to the Japanese challengers.
The panel highlighted the logistical challenges of shipping a horse from Japan to the UK, noting that Masquerage Ball’s recent media day in Newmarket showed the horse looking fit and eager. "The track at Ascot is unfamiliar to the Japanese runners, but they’ve handled travel well in the past. Their trainer’s enthusiasm suggests they’re ready to give it their all," one analyst remarked. Betting angles were also examined.
The pundits suggested that Calandagan might be offered at around 9/2, with the lower end of the range (7/2) representing a value bet if the ground suits him. However, the allure of Masquerade Ball, potentially priced at 4/1, could attract those looking for a higher‑odds pick with a credible chance of success, especially given the horse’s recent near‑miss in the Japan Cup.
Beyond the main event, the broadcast teased several ancillary stories: Hollie Doyle’s anticipation of Thunder Call’s role in the upcoming Shergar Cup at Ascot, Jamie Lynch’s five‑horse contingent for the same competition, former footballer Kevin Doyle’s venture into the Cheltenham Festival with his horse Augusta Kate, and a roundup of recent honours such as Ryan Moore’s MBE award. These side notes illustrate the breadth of coverage that Sky Sports Racing provides to its audience.
In summary, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes promises a thrilling contest featuring a blend of seasoned champions, rising stars, and international challengers. Calandagan seeks to defend his title, Masquerade Ball aims for redemption, while O'Brien’s quartet and Goliath add depth and tactical complexity. As the day approaches, fans can stay updated via Sky Sports Racing’s platforms, watch the full Weekend Winners episode on the At The Races YouTube channel, and follow live coverage on Sky Sports Racing on Saturday.
The race will not only test the mettle of each horse but also offer a showcase of the strategic acumen of trainers and jockeys alike, making it a must‑watch event for any racing enthusiast.