Constitution River led home a sensational tricast for Aidan O’Brien at Chantilly. Stablemates Hawk Mountain and Montreal followed him home in the Prix Du Jockey Club. The Epsom Derby now follows this week, with a royal boost expected for the race.
Here is the round-up of the racing news today after a Classic weekend on the continent.
Constitution River heads O’Brien 1-2-3-4
The French Derby was an all Irish affair up Chantilly’s home straight. All three Ballydoyle contenders had kicked clear of their rivals as Constitution River delivered for favourite backers. He and Ryan Moore overcame stall 16 to win well. Hawk Mountain and Montreal followed him home in second and third to rubber stamp a sensational performance by the Aidan O’Brien-trained horses. A Boy Named Susie made it an O’Brien 1-2-3-4, being trained by son Donnacha for fourth place. (Racing Post)
Epsom boosted by royal presence and Coronation Cup rematch
The King and Queen are set to renew a royal tradition by attending the Epsom Derby this weekend. Queen Elizabeth II missed just two runnings of the Derby in her time as monarch. However, King Charles and Queen Camilla have not yet attended a renewal of the Derby, though they were present for the 2024 Epsom Oaks. In a boost for the event, they will be at Epsom this year, though, with racing having invested heavily to try to revive a fading highlight. (The Guardian)
Another potential boon for Derby day is the relocated Group 1 Coronation Cup. The third top level prize at Epsom’s big meeting, after the Oaks and the Derby, was previously run on the fillies’ undercard. However, it will take place on Saturday this season alongside the Derby. The prize money for the race has been boosted and a rematch of last season’s excellent renewal looks likely. Calandagan, the world’s highest-rated racehorse, and Jan Brueghel, who beat him in 2025, are both expected to run. (Sporting Life)
Ballyadam bound for another big meeting
Cheltenham Festival regular Ballyadam is set for a different festival this summer. The 11-year-old has placed on multiple occasions at Prestbury Park in March. Now though, it will be top hat and tails for Cheveley Park’s veteran. Henry De Bromhead is reportedly set to target him at a Royal Ascot handicap after winning at Listowel on Sunday. That was his second flat start, meaning he could qualify for a high enough handicap mark. (Racing Post)
Timeforshowcasing another European Classic winner
Another European Classic took place over the weekend. Timeforshowcasing won the German 1000 Guineas at Dusseldorf for Charlie Johnston. The filly had won at Listed level at Newcastle to begin this campaign. The 1000 Guineas at Newmarket proved too hot for her, but in calmer waters, she struck under Jack Mitchell on Sunday. It was a breakthrough at Group level for the Jaber Abdullah-owned three-year-old. (Racing TV)