Epsom Oaks Entries 2026: Ballydoyle responsible for seven of 16 fillies remaining

16 filles remain after the latest scratching stage for the 2026 Epsom Oaks. The third Classic of the British season is set to take place on Friday 5 June.

Aidan O’Brien and Ballydoyle are responsible for seven of the 16 horses left in the race. Chief among those is current ante-post favourite Amelia Earhart, who has taken the Minnie Hauk route from 2025. That filly went on to Epsom glory before finishing runner-up in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Amelia Earhart was arguably more impressive in winning the Cheshire Oaks too.

Cameo is another of O’Brien’s trial winners. She won the Listed Lingfield Oaks Trial in fine style, though that looked a weaker race overall. Nevertheless, runner-up Prizeland also remains in the Oaks for Andrew Balding.

Elsewhere. disappointing 1000 Guineas favourite Precise is another Ballydoyle filly in the race. She could step up substantially in trip after taking part in the Irish 1000 Guineas.

Musidora Stakes heroine Legacy Link is the primary British contender among the 16 entries. Trained by John & Thady Gosden, she won her York trial in game fashion. However, she is likely more notable for her pedigree, being out of a full-sister to Frankel by Dubawi. If ever a horse was bred to be a high-class, it is her.

Third to Legacy Link, K Sarra is a full sister to 2025 Dante Stakes winner Pride Of Arras. He was not at home at Epsom though, so one of the more lively British runners may prove to be Venetian Lace. Charlie Johnston’s filly does not have the best strike rate but was an admirable third in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Both Donnacha and Joseph O’Brien have a single Oaks entry each to rival their father. Emmeleia is Donnacha’s representative, having finished second in the Group 3 Salsabil Stakes at Navan to Thundering On, trained by Joseph. That race was used as a stepping stone by Ezeliya in 2024.

2026 Epsom Oaks Entries