Enceladus steps up to meet the Ballydoyle partnership of Christmas Day and Pierre Bonnard in the much‑anticipated 250th running of the Group 1 Betfred St Leger. The historic race promises a thrilling showdown, with Aidan O'Brien and his son Joseph O'Brien expected to dominate a field of eleven runners. Joseph O'Brien, who captured this contest with Galileo Chrome back in 2020, now has a strong chance of repeating the feat with Enceladus.
The Sea The Stars offspring has shown steady improvement with each start, highlighted by a victory in the King George V Stakes at the Royal meeting. A win in the Gordon Stakes, a solid prep for the St Leger, has positioned him as a market leader, and he will be ridden by Billy Loughnane. Aidan O'Brien, a nine‑time champion trainer, will have four runners in the mix, including Derby‑winner Christmas Day, who is now a serious contender under the guidance of Ronan Whelan. The colt performed admirably on soft ground at Epsom, so any rain in the forecast could play to his strengths.
Moreover, he will carry five pounds less than stable‑mate Pierre Bonnard, who finished ahead of him at York and could be a key factor in the final outcome. Pierre Bonnard, who was runner‑up in the Great Voltigeur, appears well‑suited to the extended distance after being beaten only by the Arc hopeful Maltese Cross.
Another intriguing entry is Amelia Earhart, a quirky yet talented filly who showed signs of resurgence when she placed second in a Group 3 at Cork. The step up to the St Leger will be a significant test for her, but she could surprise if she continues her upward trajectory.
Among the remaining contenders, Andrew Balding’s pair Galiyan and Hatteen are worth considering as each‑way options. Saffie Osborne will take the ride on Joseph O'Brien’s second string, Highwayman, adding another layer of intrigue to the race. Turning to the Group 2 Betfred Champagne Stakes, the headline act is Desert Castle, the 2000 Guineas favourite.
Trained by Charlie Appleby, the Frankel‑sired colt burst onto the scene with a dominant win at Newmarket last month. He will be partnered again by Billy Loughnane, who hopes to add another victory to his tally and keep Oisín Murphy at bay in the jockeys’ championship race. The race card also features Gentle Hurricane, who impressed on debut and then secured second place in the Acomb Stakes. Jason Watson will replace Oisin Murphy on this mount, while the champion jockey remains occupied with commitments at Leopardstown.
William Muir has spoken highly of Breacher, a horse that claimed a Salisbury maiden on debut and subsequently ran a respectable third in Group 3 company. That form suggests he could be a factor in the upcoming plate.
Ballydoyle’s Sergei Diaghilev looks the most promising among the remaining entries, with Rosberg and Silver Dominion also positioned well. In the Group 2 Betfred Park Stakes at 2.55 pm, More Thunder drops back to seven furlongs.
Trained by William Haggas, the five‑year‑old has been a consistent performer at the top level all season. The reduction in class and distance should make him a tough nut to crack for any challenger, especially under Tom Marquand. Never So Brave, a Group 1 winner from last season, has yet to find form this year, as has Wise Approach, the previous year’s Middle Park victor.
Both will be looking to rediscover their best selves. Ralph Beckett’s Qirat, the 2025 Sussex Stakes winner, ran a fine race in defeat while chasing Zavateri at Goodwood and remains a threat. Flora Of Bermuda and Volterra round out the shortlist of potential spoilers.
The opening 1.10 pm British Stallion Studs EBF Maiden Stakes offers a purse of £25,770 to the winner. Ed Dunlop, who secured the race last year, will aim to repeat his success with Beloved Country representing his stable.
The Betfred Portland at 2.20 pm promises competitive action, with Getreadytorumble and Twilight Calls among the market leaders. Twilight Calls’ connections have already tasted success at this year’s Festival, highlighted by Speed Of Sound’s victory in Thursday’s opener.
The Pertemps Network Handicap assembles a field of 17, headlined by Bullet Point. Moonfall is also expected to attract support, especially from the popular George Boughey‑Billy Loughnane partnership.
The day kicks off with top‑class racing from Australia, where Sir Delius (formerly known simply as Delius) will take on Sheza Alibi in the Grade 1 Crown Makybe Diva Stakes. Back in the UK, Solar Edge and Kylian will clash in Lingfield’s feature – the Free Race Replays On attheraces.com Handicap at 4 pm. In the evening, Woodbine hosts a marquee showdown with Notable Speech facing Archivist and others in the Woodbine Mile at 10.20 pm.
Just 35 minutes later, the E.P. Taylor Stakes will see Diamond Rain, Sea The Fire and Jancis all vying for a valuable prize.
Overall, the 250th St Leger and the surrounding card deliver a blend of proven champions, rising stars, and seasoned campaigners, ensuring a day of high‑quality racing for fans and punters alike.