This year’s King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes has attracted ten confirmations. They include defending champion Calandagan and two runners for Japan. The race will also receive a hefty boost in prize money ahead of 2027, where contenders will race for £2.5 million.
Here is today’s racing news round-up for Tuesday.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes: Ten runners confirmed before 2027 prize money boost
Ten runners have been confirmed for the 2026 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes on Saturday. Last year’s one-two, Calandagan and Kalpana, have both been confirmed among a stellar, global field. Japanese contenders Masquerade Ball and Wurttemberg are also among the ten confirmations. Calandagan’s stablemate Goliath, winner of this in 2024, may also feature, while closer to home, Benvenuto Cellini will attempt to back up his Irish Derby success for Aidan O’Brien. His stablemates Minnie Hauk, Lambourn and Action, as well as Coronation Cup hero Bay City Roller, complete the potentials. (Thoroughbred Daily News)
The 2027 renewal will be worth even more money than this year’s event after an announcement on Monday. Ascot racecourse increased the total pure form £1.5 million to £2 million for this year’s renewal. That matches the prize of the Epsom Derby as the most lucrative British flat race. However, in 2027, a further increase to £2.5 million will occur, making it the most valuable horse race on these shores. (Mirror)
Beverley abandon Monday card due to hole in turf
Beverley racecourse became the latest track to suffer an abandonment due to course-related issues. Chester and Haydock have also seen holes appear on their racing turf earlier this flat season. On Monday, Beverley were the third track to suffer that fate, with a hole appearing on the track under the stalls at the 7f start. Three races were still to be run at the Yorkshire venue when the abandonment was announced. Haydock had to cancel three months’ worth of meetings prior to their next meeting, with it unclear yet when Beverley can race again. (Racing Post)
William Buick back aboard Touleen though eight-day ban incurred after Glorious Goodwood
William Buick will be back aboard Touleen for the filly’s next assignment. Touleen finished second in the Group 1 Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot. She incurred some trouble in running that day though, with Saffie Osborne penned in by Ballydoyle’s ranks behind Precise. Buick was on board for her impressive success at Leicester last season. The Norwegian-born jockey will don the Shadwell silks again in the Valiant Stakes at Ascot on Saturday. (Racing TV)
However, Buick will soon be forced into eight days on the sidelines in Great Britain. He received a careless riding suspension, set to be served between 3rd-10th August. That ensures Buick will be free to ride at Glorious Goodwood, which ends on Saturday 1st August after beginning on Tuesday 28th July. The week in which Buick is suspended may well see the jockey travel abroad for Godolphin. (Racing Post)