The upcoming King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes has become the focal point of this weekend’s racing discussion, and on the latest edition of Weekend Winners, presenter Kate Tracey sat down with seasoned pundits Declan Rix and Sam Boswell to dissect the field and the storylines that could shape the outcome. A total of nine horses are slated to contest the Saturday showdown, and among them the defending champion Calandagan will be looking to repeat his triumph from the previous year. Calandagan secured his maiden King George victory by edging out the filly Kalpana in a tight finish, and his connections are confident that the colt’s blend of stamina and turn‑of‑pace will serve him well once again.
Also making the trip from Japan is Masquerade Ball, a highly regarded runner who narrowly missed out on a win against the Aga Khan’s champion in the Japan Cup. That near‑miss has left the Japanese stable eager for redemption on British soil, and the horse’s recent form suggests he could be a serious threat.
Aidan O'Brien will field a quartet of runners, the most prominent being Benvenuto Cellini, the Irish Derby victor, and Minnie Hauk, who finished runner‑up in the 2025 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. Both are seasoned Group‑level performers and will add depth to the O'Brien contingent. Meanwhile, the 2024 King George winner Goliath, now under the tutelage of jockey Christophe Soumillon, will be seeking to reclaim the title that slipped from his grasp last season. In a candid interview, Declan Rix reflected on last year’s race dynamics: "The previous edition was essentially set up for Calandagan.
The pace was so relentless on fast ground that the colt never had to gallop, which suited his 10‑furlong speed. Ballydoyle’s tactics seemed off‑balance, and the race unfolded in a way that played directly into Calandagan’s strengths." Rix continued, "I don’t anticipate the same scenario this time around.
With the addition of Action and Lambourn, the early fractions should be more honest, turning the contest into a genuine test for both Minnie Hauk and Benvenuto Cellini. Whether that benefits Calandagan is uncertain – a sustained 12‑furlong gallop could expose any lingering change‑of‑gear issues he might have.
Still, he remains the class of the field. He’s older, stronger, and has shown good form this season, despite a disappointing run at Epsom earlier in the year." Sam Boswell added his perspective on the Japanese challengers: "Masquerade Ball’s effort in the Japan Cup was impressive, especially considering the trip to the opponent’s home ground. Both he and his stablemate have arrived in excellent condition, and the trainer was visibly enthusiastic during the Newmarket media day.
The unknown factor is how the horse will handle the British track, but his recent work suggests he’s adaptable." When asked about betting odds, Boswell admitted he was leaning toward Masquerade Ball: "I was seeing odds around 9/2 for Calandagan, and while 7/2 would be the shortest I’d go, the market feels generous to the defending champion. If I can get 4/1 on Masquerade Ball, I’ll take it – the Japanese horse looks sharp, and the race conditions could suit his style." The broader card at Ascot also features a number of supporting stories. Hollie Doyle hinted that Thunder Call could play a pivotal role in the Shergar Cup later in the day, while Jamie Lynch’s five‑horse entry promises an international showdown.
Former Premier League striker Kevin Doyle, now a trainer, is targeting Cheltenham Festival glory with his runners Augusta Kate and La Bague Au Roi, adding a cross‑sport narrative that fans find intriguing. In other news, Ryan Moore was recently honored with an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.
Meanwhile, Benvenuto Cellini will lead O’Brien’s four‑strong team in the Epsom Classic, underscoring the trainer’s commitment to fielding top‑tier talent across the season. Overall, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes promises a blend of proven champions, emerging talent, and international intrigue. Calandagan’s experience, Masquerate Ball’s hunger for revenge, O’Brien’s depth, and Goliath’s quest for redemption set the stage for a classic contest that could swing the balance of the mid‑season championship race. Fans can stay updated with the latest news, interviews, and expert analysis via Sky Sports Racing’s app, and the full episode of Weekend Winners is available on the At The Races YouTube channel for those who missed the live broadcast.