The Epsom Derby field was whittled down to 41 potentials on Tuesday. Aidan O’Brien is responsible for 16 of those. Meanwhile, 42 horses were provisionally entered for the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.
Here is the racing news today rounded up for Wednesday.
Epsom Derby retains 41 entrants on Tuesday
41 horses remain in contention for the 2026 Epsom Derby. The most famous flat race in the world takes place on Saturday 6 June this year. Aidan O’Brien won it last year with Lambourn, recording a third straight victory in the race. He is responsible for 16 of the 41 horses still in the running including the top five in the betting. They include ante-post favourite Benvenuto Cellini and previous market leader Pierre Bonnard. Raaheeb was the most notable absentee, with trainer Owen Burrows having ruled him out last week. (Racing TV)
42 entered for the Coral-Eclipse
The Coral-Eclipse at Sandown is the first Group 1 of the season that lets the Classic generation take on their older counterparts. 2000 Guineas hero Bow Echo has not been entered, lowering chances of him stepping up in trip. However, runner-up Gstaad has been given an entry by Aidan O’Brien. Ballydoyle won the race in extraordinary circumstances with Delacroix 12 months ago. The runner-up that day, Ombudsman, features for the Gosdens, as does 2025 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe champion Daryz. (Racing TV)
Daryzan makes superb debut in France
Daryz has already set the racing world alight on the continent. However, there is a chance his half-brother may be just as talented. Daryzan, also in the colours of the Aga Khan and trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, made a superb debut at Saint-Cloud on Tuesday. The son of Zarak won by five lengths under Mickael Barzalona and likely has Group race prospects upcoming. (PA via Sporting Life)
Hereford ground staff narrowly avoid carnage
A dramatic incident at Hereford on Tuesday nearly saw two ground staff interrupt proceedings. The 5.42pm was a four-runner 3m1f handicap chase. On the final circuit, runners briefly looked as if they may have to swerve around two groundsmen working on the track. The pair ultimately ran underneath the nearby railings in time to avoid any chaos. (Racing Post)
Punchestown announce record crowd for Champion Hurdle card
One of the biggest crowds at an Irish racing festival came together at Punchestown on Friday. The fourth day of the track’s feature festival included the Champion Hurdle, won in sensational style by Lossiemouth. A crowd of 43,572 turned up for the eight-race card, buoyed by a greater student attendance. The number surpassed the crowd from 2025 on a day which featured Constitution Hill. (Racing Post)