Sunday promises a packed programme of thoroughbred action across three venues – Brighton, Worcester and the French resort of Deauville – all being broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The centerpiece of the day will be the Group One Sumbe Prix Jean et Louis Romanet, where the brilliant three‑year‑old filly Diamond Necklace will lead a high‑class field. Diamond Necklace has been nothing short of sensational this season. Trained by the legendary Aidan O'Brien, the filly has amassed six consecutive victories, four of which have come at the elite Group One level.
Her most recent triumph came in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood, where she displayed a turn of foot and stamina that left her rivals trailing. Now, stepping up to face older horses in the Sumbe Prix Jean et Louis Romanet, she will look to extend her unbeaten streak to seven. Her combination of speed, versatility and a calm temperament makes her the overwhelming favourite, and most pundits will have her at the top of the betting ladder.
Joseph O'Brien’s filly Rebel Moon provides a compelling alternative for those seeking a challenger. Ridden by Dylan Browne‑McMonagle, Rebel Moon impressed when she finished fourth in the Irish Oaks, a race that often produces future Group One winners. While she did not make the podium, she showed a strong finishing kick and a willingness to travel.
If she can replicate that late surge at Deauville, she could be a serious threat to the favourite, especially if the race unfolds at a brisk pace that tests Diamond Necklace’s stamina. Another name to watch is Aventure, the 2022 Prix Vermeille champion, now campaigned by Christophe Ferland. Aventure’s recent run behind Calandagan at Saint‑Cloud was a disappointment, but that performance may not reflect her true ability.
Her Group Two victory in May demonstrated her class, and she will be keen to prove that she can still compete at the highest level. If she settles well and receives a clear run, she could be the most dangerous horse in the field after the two O’Brien fillies. Red Letter, a solid performer from the O’Brien yard, rounds out the top tier of the lineup and is likely to be the best of the remaining contenders. While she may not have the same headline appeal as Diamond Necklace, her consistency in Group races makes her a valuable each‑way option for punters.
The Sumbe Prix Morny, also part of the Deauville card, offers a thrilling sprint showdown over five furlongs. The field of eight includes the talented Orthodox and the promising Man’s Best Friend.
Aidan O'Brien has entered three runners in this contest, with Man’s Best Friend being the standout, piloted by the experienced Ryan Moore. The colt finished fourth on his debut, then claimed a maiden at Naas before delivering a dominant performance in the Group Two Richmond Stakes at Goodwood. That progression suggests he possesses both speed and the ability to handle stronger competition, making him a genuine contender for the Morny title. Great Barrier Reef, a colt who captured the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, suffered a setback after his victory and will be closely monitored in the betting markets.
If he returns to form, he could be a dark horse in the sprint, but his recent training reports indicate that he may need a few runs to regain full fitness. Orthodox, the Norfolk Stakes winner, is another exciting prospect for trainer Clive Cox.
The horse displayed a blistering turn of foot over five furlongs, and the step up to six furlongs at Deauville should suit his natural speed. Observers will be eager to see if he can sustain his early speed over the longer distance. Senorita Bonita, who out‑performed Libertango at Newmarket in her most recent outing, also merits attention.
With a win at York earlier in the week, she has shown she can handle a variety of ground conditions and distances, making her a solid candidate for a place finish. Turning to the Brighton Summer Series Final, the Blackmore Equestrian Construction Handicap will take place at 3.50 pm, offering a fiercely competitive race for the summer’s concluding sprint. Arnaz, representing Mark Loughnane and ridden by his son Billy, arrives in good form after two wins at Chepstow. His upbeat demeanor and recent success suggest he will be a contender in the warm‑weather contest.
The field also includes seasoned campaigners Diomed Spirit and Big Time Rascal, both of whom have previously secured each‑way placings and will be looking to add another win to their records. Prefer The Sister, carrying top weight, has shown remarkable consistency by being among the first two finishers in her last five starts, and she commands respect from the betting public. For those who want to stay updated on the latest racing news, interviews and feature stories, Sky Sports Racing’s mobile platform provides real‑time alerts and in‑depth coverage, ensuring fans never miss a beat. Finally, a quick glance at the upcoming fixtures: at 12.58 pm in Deauville, the Group Two Prix du Calvados will feature Dee’s Funny Girl, trained by Donnacha O’Brien.
At 1.33 pm, the Group Two Prix Kergorlay will see Santorini Star, a popular choice, taking on Joseph O’Brien’s Defiantly. Later, at 4.20 pm, Brighton’s Class Four race will be led by Sea Suite, who tops the field in that division.
Overall, Sunday’s schedule offers a blend of high‑profile Group races and competitive handicaps, promising excitement for both casual viewers and seasoned racing enthusiasts alike.