A field of eight runners will contest Friday’s Doncaster Cup, which is a Group 2 race run over 2m 1f 197y. Caballo De Mar and Queenstown dominate the betting, which is a race that lacks significant strength in depth.

Steve Chambers previews the contest and picks out his 1-2-3, as well as looking at the latest betting and trends for the marathon feature.

2026 Doncaster Cup Runners 

A Group 1 winner in France back in May, Caballo De Mar has often struggled to deliver in top class company on British shores, but a drop in grade on Friday should see him play a notable role. George Scott’s stable star was last seen finishing fourth in a tougher Lonsdale Cup at York last time out, so will be looking to improve on that effort here.

Aidan O’Brien’s Queenstown appears to be the biggest danger according to the bookmakers and he returned after a lengthy layoff to storm to victory in the Irish St Leger trial. If he can emulate that run in this event then he has to be the one to beat.

A fascinating runner for Emmet Mullins, Winday will come to Doncaster on the back of a Ffos Las maiden over a mile-and-a-half. It’s unknown how good he could be, but the Irish challenger adds huge intrigue to the race. Down the field in the Ebor at York, Epic Poet lines up in Group company here for David O’Meara.

Beylerbeyi and Berkshire Sundance have some smart form in the book, but not at top notch staying level, whilst Ascending and Peace Belle complete the eight-strong field.

2026 Doncaster Cup Racecard

Doncaster Cup Trends 2026

Check out some of the key stats and trends for the Doncaster Cup:

• 7 of the last 10 winners have been favourite
• 9 of the last 10 winners have been trained in Britain
• 1 of the last 10 winners had been unbeaten that season before taking victory
• 4 of the last 10 winners have been aged 6 or older

2026 Doncaster Cup Tips 

With Caballo De Mar often disappointing on the big stage, it’s worth taking him on with Queenstown, who can land the prize for Aidan O’Brien. A shock runaway winner of the Irish St Leger trial, the Ballydoyle raider can follow that performance up with a similar display here. He can get the better of Epic Poet, who can improve on his Ebor disappointment, whilst Caballo De Mar can complete the first three home.

FAQ

When and where is the Doncaster Cup?

The Doncaster Cup will take place at Doncaster racecourse on Friday 11th September 2026 at 3.00pm.

How can I watch the Doncaster Cup on Friday?

The Doncaster Cup is live on ITV at 3.00pm on Friday.

When were the Doncaster Cup tips published?

The tips for the Doncaster Cup were published at 2.30pm on Thursday 9th September.

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