The Dante Stakes is the last of the most recognised Derby trials ahead of Epsom’s famous meeting. York’s contest has provided two winners courtesy of Golden Horn and Desert Crown since 2015.

GG tipster Joe Napier previews the 2026 renewal, analysing the runners and riders and giving his verdict.

2026 Dante Stakes Runners 

Both Christmas Day and Morshdi have already won Derby trials of sorts. Both did so early in the campaign though and another run for fitness is favoured for both. Christmas Day’s form has worked out substantially better, with three of those beaten in the Ballysax Stakes fighting out the finish to Leopardstown’s Derby Trial at the weekend. His profile is one of continuous improvement, which is ominous for his rivals here.

Aidan O’Brien has a relatively poor record in this race, however. He is without a win since 2010, whereas William Haggas won this two years ago. Morshdi’s win at Newmarket has worked out very poorly, but he was strong through the line over 1m1f. His trainer is in good form and he should get the trip.

Three Godolphin runners go to post. Charlie Appleby will be desperate for a winner after a terrible run in recent weeks. King’s Trail is the one for William Buick after his 2000 Guineas ninth ahead of Sandown Classic Trial second Al Zanati. Both have work to do to prove themselves at the top level, as does Guildmaster. However, the Gosdens have had two horses place at big prices in the last five renewals of the Dante and Guildmaster lacked balance at Newmarket. He will have learned plenty and may prefer this track.

Stablemate Wise Prince was third at Sandown, while O’Brien’s Action was fourth. That form may be reversed further down the field, though Item could prove a wildcard. He is unbeaten in two starts at a much lower level, but potential has won the day in the Dante in the recent past. The Juddmonte runner could easily have much more to offer and Andrew Balding has been firing in the winners.

2026 Dante Stakes Racecard

Dante Stakes Trends 2026 

Dave Young has already analysed the Dante Stakes trends ahead of the 2026 renewal. You can find a more detailed examination of those here.

2026 Dante Stakes Tips 

The form of Christmas Day‘s success at Leopardstown has been franked kindly and he can become the latest Derby contender for Ballydoyle. Aidan O’Brien has a poor recent record in the Dante, but he is a comfortable form pick. Potential has been the commodity of choice in this race in recent years, so twice-raced pair Guildmaster and Item are feared most, the former having the benefit of a recent run.

FAQ

When and where is the Dante Stakes?

The Dante Stakes will take place at York racecourse on Thursday 14 May, 2026 at 4.05pm.

How can I watch the Dante Stakes on Thursday?

The Dante Stakes is live on ITV Racing at 4.05pm on Thursday.

When were the Dante Stakes tips published?

The tips for the Dante Stakes were published at 3.35pm on Wednesday 13 May.

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