After rallying behind Daryz in the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, the panel on the Weekend Winners show shifted its focus to the Challenge Cup at Ascot. The heritage handicap, run over a distance of seven furlongs, has attracted a full complement of eighteen runners, making for a highly competitive field.
Among the entrants, Thunder Call has emerged as the early betting favorite, backed by the William Haggas stable. The horse’s odds have been trimmed to 11/4, reflecting strong confidence from the market, although some pundits feel the price may be a touch generous given the depth of the opposition. Also featuring in the race is Moonfall, a promising prospect for the partnership of Billy Loughnane and George Boughey.
Moonfall will be looking to improve on recent performances and capitalize on the relatively light weight allocation that the handicap system provides. Perhaps the most intriguing contender is Mezcala, a former Royal Ascot winner who has already shown a knack for handling the Ascot straight.
Mezcala’s connections are hopeful that the horse can replicate past success and add another prestigious trophy to its résumé. The race will be broadcast live from Ascot on Sky Sports Racing at 3.35 pm on Saturday, giving fans an opportunity to watch the drama unfold in real time. One of the Weekend Winners analysts commented on the difficulty of the Challenge Cup, noting that the race truly lives up to its name.
"Thunder Call looks like a solid pick, but I thought the 11/4 price was a little short. I respect his ability, yet I wanted to explore other options," the pundit explained. "Richard Spencer has been consistent in similar events throughout the season, and while he’s been quieter lately, he still has two strong horses entered – Hawksbill and Two Tribes – which caught my eye." The commentator also highlighted a long‑shot contender at 20/1 odds, pointing out that the horse’s recent form at Ascot is hard to ignore.
"He was runner‑up in the International Stakes carrying one pound less, which is a key indicator of his class," the analyst said. "He’s a genuinely good horse and now has the benefit of a seven‑pound weight reduction thanks to jockey Toby Moore.
That reduction could be crucial to his chances." The discussion turned to Ayr, another entrant whose recent performance includes a fourth‑place finish behind Extremely Zain in the International. "Ayr might be over‑faced in this race, but Toby Moore’s booking is eye‑catching and I hope he can make the most of it," the pundit added. The show also reminded viewers that they can stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews, and features via the Sky Sports Racing app, ensuring they never miss a story from the sport. Turning back to Mezcala, the analyst invoked the famous line “once more unto the breach, dear friends,” emphasizing the horse’s potential to make a strong run.
"I’m hoping Port Master gets a good start because the race may lack a burst of early speed, which could make it a bit chaotic," they noted. "Ascot often rails off the straight track to keep things fresh for Champions Day, and even with a smaller field, the runners can split into two groups. We’ll see how that plays out." If Mezcala can return to the form he displayed in the Buckingham Palace Stakes, his chances improve dramatically.
"The race set‑up suits him perfectly along the rail, giving him cover and allowing him to unleash his best late run," the commentator said. "He was a little lucky that the runner‑up was idling, but if he replicates that performance, he’ll be right in the mix. He also ran admirably at the Leger meeting despite challenging circumstances." George Bass, Mezcala’s trainer, is urged to keep the horse well‑covered, as the analyst warned that a lack of tactical support could hinder the horse’s chances. "I’m still backing Mezcala," the pundit continued.
"His Doncaster run was respectable, though a low draw and an unfavourable running style held him back. He may have been a touch short of the required rating of 98, but he’s now been given a generous one‑pound allowance." Even though Mezcala’s odds have slipped to 15/2, the analyst believes the horse remains above the level at which he won at Royal Ascot.
"Back on this track and with his trusted friend George Bass in the trainer’s seat, I like him at 15/2," they concluded. For those who missed the live broadcast, the full Weekend Winners programme is available on the At The Races YouTube channel, where fans can catch up on analysis, interviews, and in‑depth coverage of the Challenge Cup and other key races throughout the meeting. Overall, the Challenge Cup promises a thrilling contest with a blend of proven talent, emerging prospects, and seasoned handicappers.
Whether you’re rooting for the market favourite Thunder Call, the long‑shot at 20/1, or the seasoned Royal Ascot winner Mezcala, the race offers plenty of intrigue and the potential for a memorable upset. Stay tuned to Sky Sports Racing for the live action and enjoy the excitement that only Ascot can deliver.