Raaheeb, the Shadwell‑owned thoroughbred, is set to make his return to the track on Monday afternoon, with the race being broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. The elegant colt is aiming to pick up where he left off in the Weatherbys Global Stallions App Winter Hill Stakes, hoping to continue his upward trajectory.
A full brother to the elite performers Baaeed and Hukum, Raaheeb began his career in impressive fashion, securing a tidy victory as a two‑year‑old before delivering a commanding performance in the Classic Trial at Sandown. He later demonstrated his class by finishing a respectable fourth in the Irish Derby, where he travelled strongly and appeared to be a genuine contender before fading late under jockey Rossa Ryan.
The connections have deliberately given him time to mature both physically and mentally, believing that this measured approach will set him up for a successful comeback. Even with a penalty attached, he should prove a difficult opponent in the relatively calm conditions expected at Windsor.
Another notable entrant is Venetian Prince, who heads the in‑form Andrew Balding stable after capturing the Italian Derby in June. However, his recent outing at Royal Ascot was underwhelming; he was outpaced over three furlongs in the King Edward VII Stakes, leaving his connections to reassess his form. In contrast, Maho Bay delivered a creditable effort at the Royal meeting, though he was unlucky to encounter trouble in the home straight. Unexposed to a wide range of competition, Maho Bay could emerge as a serious threat if he finds his rhythm on the day.
The broadcast will also feature the latest horse‑racing news, interviews and special features from Sky Sports Racing, keeping fans up‑to‑date with the sport’s most compelling stories. Among the other horses highlighted are Crest Of Fire and Harmonics, both of which have been making steady progress through handicap ranks. While they have shown promise, a significant improvement would be required for either to step up and win at a graded level. Jockey Hollie Doyle has highlighted the potential of Owen Burrows’ filly, who could claim a victory in the Park Hill Stakes if she continues her current form.
Meanwhile, jumps action will be showcased from Sedgefield on Wednesday and from Bangor‑on‑Dee on Tuesday, offering a full programme of National Hunt racing for viewers. In the flat arena, Daryz sparkled in a trial for the Arc, indicating that the colt may be a serious contender for the upcoming premier European race. Francis‑Henri Graffard also provided insights into his stable stars, sharing valuable observations about their preparation and prospects.
Friendly Soul delivered a standout performance in the Prix Vermeille, demonstrating the depth of talent present in the field. The improving pair of Arctic Voyage and Edelak will contest a tactical Par Inn Handicap Hurdle. Edelak, who returned to winning ways at Stratford in July after a fall in his penultimate start, has now secured four victories in his last five outings, often doing so with apparent ease. A brief spell after a busy campaign is expected to allow him to chase a personal best performance.
Arctic Voyage, who switched to the Michael Blake yard and has taken to hurdling with enthusiasm, has won three of his last four starts and looked particularly impressive in his most recent race, finishing strongly with a comfortable margin. On the other side of the hurdle division, War Correspondent has struggled with preparation, posting two lackluster runs over fences. This opens the door for Ellerton, who boasts an encouraging win back over hurdles after undergoing a breathing operation, to become the primary challenger to the leading pair.
In the follow‑at‑the‑races Instagram Handicap, progressive filly Brunhilde steps up in distance. Trained by George Boughey, she has improved with each run since her debut in May, culminating in a dominant five‑length victory at Lingfield. Her pedigree is noteworthy, being closely related to Godolphin’s listed winner Ghostwatch, and the step up to a mile and six furlongs is expected to further showcase her stamina and class.
Last Verse, another Lingfield performer, finished very nicely in his most recent start. He remains relatively unexposed and is positioned well within his handicap, making him a horse to watch. Level Look, after a promising second place at Chester, should be able to build on that form despite having been disadvantaged by a rearward position in the Shergar Cup last month. Finally, Robusto, who won his last outing, is likely to be competitive again.
However, his higher all‑weather rating may limit his ability to improve his handicap mark compared to less‑exposed rivals. Overall, the Windsor card promises a blend of seasoned campaigners and rising talents, each looking to make an impact in their respective divisions. Fans tuning in to Sky Sports Racing can expect a full day of high‑quality racing, insightful analysis, and the occasional surprise as the horses and jockeys vie for glory on the flat and over jumps.