The International Handicap is in some ways the opening course for the King George, taking place 40 minutes before the main event at Ascot on Saturday. However, there is star potential in the 17-runner handicap, which looks an excellent betting heat.

GG tipster Joe Napier previews the contest, debating whether Extremely Zain can prove the handicap blot many think him to be.

2026 International Handicap Runners 

This race hinges on what Extremely Zain has left in the locker. His victory on handicap debut at York last time was startlingly impressive, having met so much trouble in running and challenging on the near side of the track, which would not have been favourable. He is up 8lb, but that looks a very light penalty and connections seem confident he can prove a Group race horse. He may even be better than that.

In theory, Aalto, Amazing Journey and Saytarr should all be significant threats here. The trio carry 3lb penalties for recent victories, meaning they are well-in compared to their adjusted marks. However, Aalto’s record is terrible at Ascot and Saytarr prefers all-weather surfaces. Amazing Journey can prove dangerous though, as the step up to 7f could well suit on the evidence of his power-packed finish over 6f here last time out. Jamie Osborne’s charge is progressing quickly.

The admirable Back In Black should give each-way backers a good run. It is eight without a win for him now though, despite always finishing in the top five in that time. Mezcala is now a proven winner though, landing the Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot and is only up 4lb. He may well have a plum draw again.

Of the rest, the top three in the weights in Golden Mind, Completely Random and Great Acclaim now look held by the handicapper. Two Tribes may not be though, given he hinted at a revival last time. He won this a year ago, with Akkadian Thunder in mid-division, but David O’Meara’s charge is now 8lb lower and conditions suit him ideally. Stablemate Leadman could also be on his way back up the handicap at a price.

2026 International Handicap Racecard

International Handicap Trends 2026

• No three-year-old has won this in the past decade
• Seven of the last ten winners carried 9st or more
• Three favourites have won this since 2026, though none since 2021
• The last three winners have gone off at 16/1 or higher

2026 International Handicap Tips 

Three-year-olds have a poor recent record in this race, but the younger generation looks overwhelmingly strong in this renewal. Extremely Zain can justify his position atop the market, as he looked to have an almighty amount in hand when scoring at York last time despite meeting trouble in running. The same could be said of Amazing Journey, who steps up in trip to 7f but is 5lb well in and can given the selection plenty to think about. Akkadian Thunder is due a big run, while Mezcala could benefit again if the higher stalls are preferable, which they often were at the royal meeting.

FAQ

When and where is the International Handicap?

The International Handicap will take place at Ascot racecourse on Saturday 25 July 2026 at 2.55pm.

How can I watch the International Handicap on Saturday?

The International Handicap is live on ITV Racing at 2.55pm on Saturday.

When were the International Handicap tips published?

The tips for the International Handicap were published at 12.10pm on Friday 24 July.

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