Epsom Derby Entries 2026: 22 remain in contention for Classic glory

A total of 22 horses stood their ground on Tuesday for the 2026 Epsom Derby. The fourth Classic is the most cherished of them all and takes place this year on Saturday 6 June.

Epsom has been the domain of Ballydoyle in recent years. The last three runnings of the Derby have gone to Aidan O’Brien, with Lambourn completing the hat-trick in 2025. O’Brien appears intent to keep the trophy in safe keeping, as he is responsible for almost half of those left in the race. Ten of the 22 are under his care.

They include his leading three ante-post fancies. The current market leader and recently deposed favourite are both among them in Benvenuto Cellini and Pierre Bonnard. The former won the Chester Vase in style, while the latter was Derby favourite to start 2026. He has met with defeat on both starts this season though.

As a result, another of O’Brien’s potential runners leapfrogged him in the betting too. That horse was Constitution River, who comfortably landed the Dee Stakes at Chester, impressing on the clock.

In terms of British participants, Andrew Balding and William Haggas have the primary duo. The former sent forward Dante Stakes hero Item, while the latter has Lingfield Derby Trial winner Maltese Cross to rely on. The unbeaten Saxon Street remains in contention for John & Thady Gosden too.

2026 Epsom Derby Entries