Our Newbury racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 18th September 2026. The action gets underway at 13:47 and runs through to 17:50, with going reported as GOOD, Good to firm in places.
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Raintown boasts a 18.18% strike rate from 11 runs at the track, Olivia Tubb has been in fine form here with 4 wins from 14 rides, Charlie Appleby’s yard sends out runners with a 25% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Newbury
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Newbury over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Daily Post | 26 | 12 | 46.15% | 88.46% |
| Newmarket | Racing Post | 13 | 6 | 46.15% | 69.23% |
| Melissa Jones | D Express | 13 | 6 | 46.15% | 46.15% |
| Jeffrey Ross | Sporting Times | 11 | 4 | 36.36% | 72.73% |
| racing-daily.com | racing-daily.com | 17 | 6 | 35.29% | 64.71% |
13:47 – Kennet Valley Syndicates Nick Robinson EBF Maiden Stakes (GBB Race)
Race Details: 6f | Class 4 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a useful enough 2yo maiden for the grade, with solid placed form on show from Oakford, Al Widyan and War Chest, but also a handful of interesting newcomers from yards that know the job at Newbury. Oakford sets the standard on bare figures after finishing second last time and his Topspeed mark of 76 is the best in the field, though he is drawn low in stall 2 in a big field. Al Widyan has gone the right way in two starts for Andrew Balding and is another with very obvious claims, while War Chest shaped well when third on debut and should know plenty more now. The puzzle is whether one of the unexposed types such as Hope In Havana or Cornichon is above average first time out. Tricky, but not impossible.
Top Selections
1. Oakford – 3/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Lewis Edmunds | Trainer: Roger Teal | Form: 52 | Rating: 84 | Topspeed: 76
Oakford brings the most persuasive established form into the race and, in a maiden full of guesswork, that counts for plenty. He improved from fifth to second between his first two runs, posted the best official rating in the field at 84 and his Topspeed figure of 76 is comfortably the standout. That says he has already run to a level good enough to win plenty of ordinary maidens. He is not hiding from the assessor and doesn’t need to improve much again to take this. At 3/1, he is short enough in a 16-runner race, but still the one with the clearest and strongest claims. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. War Chest – 5/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Charles Bishop | Trainer: Eve Johnson Houghton | Form: 3 | Rating: 79 | Topspeed: 68
War Chest appeals as the each-way play because his debut third suggested there is a fair bit more to come once experience kicks in. Eve Johnson Houghton can ready one well enough, but plenty from the yard step forward markedly from run one to run two, and this colt already has a rating of 79 to work from. Stall 1 could be no bad thing if he breaks alertly and grabs a handy position on this quickish ground. He doesn’t have to bridge a huge gap on the principals and the 5/1 on offer makes him attractive in a race where a few of the shorter-priced newcomers still have to prove it on the track. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Oakford is the straight win play because his form is already there in black and white and the figures back it up. War Chest makes more appeal as the each-way punt in a big field, especially with natural second-start progress likely. Al Widyan is the obvious danger among those with experience, while Hope In Havana and Cornichon are the debutants to keep a close eye on in the market.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Admiral Leach | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 (Bet365) |
| Al Widyan | 5/2 | 9/4 | 5/2 | 9/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 (William Hill) |
| Chevere | 40/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Coatimundi | 125/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 125/1 | 125/1 (Bet365) |
| Cornichon | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 (William Hill) |
| Halloween Jack | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| Hope In Havana | 11/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Oakford | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 3/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Red Wizard | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (William Hill) |
| Solo Quest | 16/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Starbolt | 25/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 (Bet365) |
| The Rusty Roleex | 66/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| War Chest | 9/2 | 4/1 | 5/1 | 4/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Worthawhistle | 22/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Angel Childe | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Betfair) |
| Starlette Sky | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
14:22 – Dubai Duty Free Full Of Surprises British EBF Fillies’ Conditions Stakes (GBB Race)
Race Details: 7f | Class 2 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This may be only a five-runner affair, but it is not lacking quality. Sorrengail sets the standard on a mark of 95 and her 412 form line reads well in the context of a race like this, so she is the obvious one they all have to beat. Sweetwonderfulyou also arrives on the up after a win and looks the chief threat if taking another step forward, while Spirit Of Lyra has already shown useful ability and gets Ryan Moore booked, which catches the eye. Learning has a little to find on the figures and Miss Miniver is an interesting unbeaten type, though she does lack a published price here. It looks a strong enough conditions race for the grade, but not an impossible puzzle: class and proven speed may settle it.
Top Selections
1. Sorrengail – 8/11 with Betfair
Jockey: William Buick | Trainer: Charlie Appleby | Form: 412 | Rating: 95 | Topspeed: 88
Sorrengail is hard to oppose in a race lacking depth. Charlie Appleby’s filly has the best rating in the field, the best Topspeed figure as well, and that 412 form suggests she has been operating at a higher level than most of these. She is not wildly ahead of the pack on bare numbers, but in a tactical five-runner race proven class often counts for plenty and William Buick is exactly the man you want aboard in that scenario. At 8/11 with Betfair, she is no giveaway, but she does look the likeliest winner and the one with the fewest questions to answer. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple in a race of this size. Sorrengail is the win bet and looks the most solid play on the card in terms of profile, figures and stable strength. There is no each-way angle with only five runners. Sweetwonderfulyou appeals as the main danger, while Spirit Of Lyra is the one who could outrun her price if the race gets tactical.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorrengail | 1/2 | 8/11 | 8/11 | 8/11 | 1/2 | 8/11 (Betfair) |
| Sweetwonderfulyou | 7/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 7/2 | 4/1 (Betfair) |
| Learning | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Betfair) |
| Spirit Of Lyra | 17/2 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 13/2 | 12/1 (Betfair) |
14:57 – Dubai Duty Free Nursery Handicap
Race Details: 7f | Class 4 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a proper nursery rather than a weak numbers job, with several lightly raced types open to better and a few battle-hardened juveniles already showing their hand. Silver Sovereign arrives as the obvious starting point after a tidy maiden success, while Next Of Kin is the unexposed one from the Haggas yard and could easily have more to offer now handicapping over 7f. Weleyff has the best published topspeed and shouldn’t be dismissed for one poor run, while The Bookkeeper is solid enough but looks a little more exposed than some of the market principals. Lower down the weights, Sakowin is interesting after winning last time despite carrying a lofty mark for a maiden winner. Tricky, yes, but it should take a progressive sort rather than an exposed handicapper.
Top Selections
1. Next Of Kin – 9/2 with Bet365
Jockey: Cieren Fallon | Trainer: William Haggas | Form: 31 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 64
He is the one I want on side. That bare form of 31 doesn’t scream flashy, but it does suggest a colt learning quickly, and the step into nursery company off 88 looks fair rather than harsh. Haggas is the sort to place one carefully in this division, and this 7f around Newbury should suit a juvenile who looks likely to improve with experience. The market has cottoned on, but 9/2 still feels workable given how much more there could be to come from just a third career start. In a race full of possible angles, he makes the most appeal as the win play.
Bet: WIN
2. Sakowin – 14/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Finley Marsh | Trainer: Richard Hughes | Form: 8591 | Rating: 93 | Topspeed: 75
This is a much bigger ask after being hit with a 93 mark, but he is too interesting to ignore at 14/1. That latest win at least showed he had begun to work things out, and being in here off just 120 means he gets in with a feather weight despite that lofty rating. Richard Hughes also runs The Bookkeeper, so this one could be overlooked slightly in the betting, but he may not be done progressing yet. In a race where plenty are tightly matched on paper, a lightly weighted two-year-old coming here on the back of a breakthrough success makes plenty of each-way sense at the prices.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Next Of Kin is the win bet because he looks the most likely improver and has the profile of a nursery horse who could still be ahead of the assessor. Sakowin is the each-way punt at 14/1, with that low weight making him dangerous if building on his latest success. Silver Sovereign is the obvious danger, while Weleyff is worth respecting if bouncing back.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weleyff | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Sonny Parvenue | 18/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| The Bookkeeper | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 (William Hill) |
| Jumeirah Storm | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 (William Hill) |
| Next Of Kin | 9/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 (Bet365) |
| Mojito Madness | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 (Betfair) |
| Theheatison | 18/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Silver Sovereign | 3/1 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 3/1 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Magi Melchior | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Isabella De Vega | 16/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Sakowin | 14/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| First Mate | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Fortunatus | Next Of Kin |
| The Brigadier | Next Of Kin |
| sportinglife.com | Next Of Kin |
| Ben Morgan | The Bookkeeper |
| The Judge | Weleyff |
| Rob Wright | Weleyff |
| The Punt | First Mate |
15:32 – Haynes Hanson & Clark Conditions Stakes (Colts & Geldings)
Race Details: 1m | Class 2 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a smart 2yo mile conditions race rather than a routine autumn nursery stepping stone, with several coming here after promising starts and one standout on the figures. Bin Jahwar sets the standard after a striking debut win and his rating of 102 makes him the obvious one they all have to beat. He is not meeting mugs, though. Apulia Bay arrives with solid three-run form, Impasto shaped like a colt with a fair bit more to offer on debut, while Flying Pirate has already shown he can win more than once. Algaihabane and King High are open to plenty of progress too, but this does feel a race where class and raw upside will decide it rather than battle-hardened experience. Strong contest, but not an impossible puzzle.
Top Selections
1. Bin Jahwar – 4/6 with Betfair
Jockey: William Buick | Trainer: Charlie Appleby | Form: 1 | Rating: 102 | Topspeed: 93
He is short, but with good reason. A debut winner straight off the bat for Charlie Appleby, Bin Jahwar already brings the best rating in the field and a Topspeed figure that marks him down as a colt of proper substance. In these Newbury juvenile conditions events you want a horse who looked professional early, and that is exactly the impression he created. William Buick is an obvious positive, and the draw in 2 should allow him to travel where he wants. At 4/6 he is hardly a hidden gem, but he sets a clear standard and is hard to oppose unless one of the less exposed types takes a sizeable leap forward. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Impasto – 9/1 with William Hill
Jockey: Colin Keane | Trainer: Andrew Balding | Form: 2 | Rating: 97 | Topspeed: 96
If you want to play against the obvious favourite from an each-way angle, Impasto makes plenty of appeal. He was only second on debut, but that run was full of promise and the 97 rating with a standout 96 Topspeed says it was no ordinary maiden effort. Andrew Balding’s youngsters tend to come forward plenty for a first run, and Colin Keane is not the sort you book by accident. Receiving weight from the principals also helps. At 9/1, he looks the value against rivals who have already shown most of their hand. He does not need to improve dramatically to get involved, and a touch of normal second-start progress could easily put him right in the frame. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Bin Jahwar is the win play because he already looks the class act and has the figures to back it up. For an each-way punt, Impasto is the one at the prices, especially with weight on his side and likely improvement to come. Apulia Bay is the obvious danger if building on his latest win, while Flying Pirate is not dismissed in a race with a bit of depth.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Algaihabane | 8/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 13/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Bin Jahwar | 8/13 | 4/6 | 4/6 | 4/6 | 8/13 | 4/6 (Betfair) |
| King High | 11/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 8/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| The Balearic Sun | 33/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Apulia Bay | 9/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Flying Pirate | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (William Hill) |
| Grove Street | 18/1 | 18/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Impasto | 17/2 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (William Hill) |
| Noble Traveller | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Yuzuru | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Whistler | Flying Pirate |
| Lambourn | King High |
| Lee Sobot | Bin Jahwar |
| Computeform | Bin Jahwar |
| Stephen Darbyshire | Apulia Bay |
16:07 – Dubai Duty Free Cup Stakes (Listed Race)
Race Details: 7f | Class 1 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a proper Listed heat rather than a penalty kick for the market leader. Catullus brings the best rating in the field and, as a 3yo carrying just 127lb, is the obvious one to beat if reproducing his best 7f form. Spy Chief is the other class act on figures, though he does come here with a slightly mixed profile and short enough odds for a horse who still has a bit to prove in a finish. Elarak has been knocking hard on the door and is the one likely to make the principals work, while Fondo Blanco also has the recent form to be competitive if things fall right. It is a strong race for the grade, but not an impossible puzzle, and there may be a bit more juice in siding with solid current form against pure reputation.
Top Selections
1. Catullus – 2/1 with Bet365
Jockey: William Buick | Trainer: Charlie Appleby | Form: -27103 | Rating: 124 | Topspeed: 114
Catullus sets the standard on the numbers and the 3yo allowance is a major help in a race where several older rivals are tightly matched. His rating of 124 is the standout piece of evidence here, and that Topspeed mark of 114 says he has already run to a level the others will struggle to match if he turns up in the same mood. The latest third was no disgrace and this drop into Listed company makes plenty of sense. Buick for Appleby in this sort of race is never an angle to ignore, and at 2/1 he is short enough but still fair rather than cramped. He is the most likely winner. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Elarak – 11/2 with William Hill
Jockey: David Probert | Trainer: Charles Hills | Form: -44232 | Rating: 122 | Topspeed: 109
Elarak appeals as the each-way play because he is arriving here in better nick than plenty of these and his form figures scream consistency at a good level. He has been finding one or two too strong, but there is no shame in that, and a mark of 122 puts him right in the argument on raw ability. The key point is that he keeps running his race over this sort of trip, and in a 10-runner Listed event that reliability counts for plenty. Probert should be able to slot him in from stall 9 and let him use that strong finishing effort late on. At 11/2, he looks the value alternative to the favourite. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Catullus is the win play on class, weight and the strongest figure in the race. For a bit more betting value, Elarak makes plenty of appeal as the each-way punt given how solid his recent sequence has been. Spy Chief is the obvious danger if Ryan Moore can get a cleaner tune out of him, while Fondo Blanco also has enough recent form to threaten the places.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elarak | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 (William Hill) |
| Fondo Blanco | 7/1 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Bet365) |
| Myal | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Northern Champion | 18/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Betfair) |
| Spy Chief | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 10/3 | 10/3 (William Hill) |
| Whip Cracker | 14/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Zoum Zoum | 28/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Catullus | 2/1 | 15/8 | 15/8 | 15/8 | 15/8 | 2/1 (Bet365) |
| All Moonshine | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Leading Dancer | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Templegate | Catullus |
| Mirror Online | Elarak |
| Ian Gaughran | Spy Chief |
16:40 – Dubai Duty Free Fillies’ Handicap (GBBPlus Race)
Race Details: 1m 4f | Class 4 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This is a proper fillies’ handicap rather than a penalty kick, with several progressive 3yos taking on solid, battle-hardened older mares. Lady Magu arrives on a hat-trick and is the obvious starting point, while Littlecote, Hello Friend and Bintknight all bring unexposed profiles to the table from the younger generation. Among the older fillies, Nightsinwhitesatin has been knocking loudly on the door without quite putting her head in front, and Redbud Sixteen is reliable enough if a shade exposed off 90. Over this Newbury 1m4f, a sensible pace and the ability to settle should matter plenty on quickish ground. It looks a tricky enough puzzle rather than a deep race, and I’d rather side with improving types than those who have had plenty of chances.
Top Selections
1. Littlecote – 5/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Oisin Murphy | Trainer: Andrew Balding | Form: 5-2221 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed:
Littlecote makes plenty of appeal in a race where the 3yos could easily dominate. She had been threatening to get her head in front with three consecutive seconds before finally doing the job last time, and that profile suggests she is still on the way up rather than having hit her ceiling. An opening mark of 88 still looks workable, especially with Oisin Murphy booked for a yard that does well with progressive middle-distance fillies. At 5/1, she looks a fair price against a favourite who is respected but no certainty in a deeper race than her last two wins. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Aphrodite Spirit – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Joe Leavy | Trainer: Roger Teal | Form: 21-332 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 75
Aphrodite Spirit is the each-way play because she keeps running her race and doesn’t look badly treated. Her recent figures of 3-3-2 tell you she is holding her form well, and while she lacks the sexy profile of some of the younger fillies, she is dependable at this sort of level. A mark of 88 gives her a squeak, and in a 12-runner race with four places on offer, 12/1 makes plenty of each-way sense if she gets the trip run to suit. She may not have the raw upside of Littlecote or Lady Magu, but she is the type to keep finding under pressure and outrun her price. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Littlecote is the win bet at 5/1 because she still looks ahead of her mark and should have more to offer over this trip. Aphrodite Spirit is the each-way punt at 12/1 in a race paying four places, with consistency very much her angle. The obvious danger is Lady Magu, who is thriving, while Nightsinwhitesatin is hard to leave out of place calculations again.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redbud Sixteen | 6/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Bet365) |
| Miss Tonnerre | 18/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Gloryous | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Aphrodite Spirit | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
| Nightsinwhitesatin | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Lady Magu | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 (Bet365) |
| Counter Intuitive | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Bintknight | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 15/2 | 7/1 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Hello Friend | 15/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Littlecote | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Glenna | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Karl Hedley | Aphrodite Spirit |
| Mercury | Littlecote |
17:15 – Fitzdares Handicap (GBBPlus Race) (Div I)
Race Details: 1m 2f | Class 4 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a typically competitive Newbury handicap rather than a deep one, and the market has latched onto the unexposed 3yos. River Card makes obvious appeal after returning with a solid fourth and he has the inside draw, while Tambora arrives on the back of a win and is entitled to keep progressing. Loz Vegas has been given every chance by the handicapper and could easily bounce back, but he is beginning to look a little expensive to follow. Among the older horses, Raintown brings the most reliable recent profile and gets in here with a very light weight, while Perfect Scoundrel is not badly treated if things drop right. It is a race where the younger legs may tell, but there is enough depth to make it no penalty kick.
Top Selections
1. River Card – 7/4 with Bet365
Jockey: David Egan | Trainer: Brian Meehan | Form: 210-4 | Rating: 90 | Topspeed: 81
River Card is the percentage call. He signed off last season with form figures of 2, 1 and 0, and his comeback fourth suggested he had trained on well enough for this sort of assignment. From stall 1, David Egan should be able to get him into a handy rhythm around a track where that often matters, and an opening mark of 90 does not look at all harsh for a 3yo with a bit of upside over 1m2f. He is short enough at 7/4, so there is no pretending he is a hidden gem, but in a race lacking bombproof alternatives he is the one with the strongest claims. Bet: WIN
2. Raintown – 12/1 with Bet365
Jockey: David Probert | Trainer: J S Moore | Form: 423123 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 84
Raintown is the each-way play at the prices. He may be a 6yo in against younger, less exposed rivals, but his recent profile is rock-solid and he keeps running to a similar level. Those figures of 423123 tell their own story, and a topspeed mark of 84 says he is not lacking for pace either. Carrying just 122, he is very well positioned if this turns into a properly-run handicap where proven toughness counts for plenty. David Probert is a positive booking for a horse who usually travels and tries, and 12/1 looks fair for one who should be in the first three more often than the market implies. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
River Card is the win bet, even if the price is more solid than spectacular, because he looks the likeliest improver and has fewer questions to answer than most. Raintown is the each-way option on consistency and a feather weight. The obvious danger is Tambora, who has momentum after winning last time, while Loz Vegas is capable of better than his latest run if bouncing back.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parlando | 22/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Mohaaraj | 10/1 | 17/2 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| River Card | 7/4 | 6/4 | 13/8 | 6/4 | 5/4 | 7/4 (Bet365) |
| Tambora | 3/1 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 3/1 (Bet365) |
| Loz Vegas | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 (William Hill) |
| Perfect Scoundrel | 9/1 | 8/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Mythical Bird | 11/1 | 11/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (William Hill) |
| Gemmari | 28/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Raintown | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| RP Ratings | Loz Vegas |
| On The Nose | River Card |
17:50 – Fitzdares Handicap (GBBPlus Race) (Div II)
Race Details: 1m 2f | Class 4 | Going: GOOD, Good to firm in places | | flat
This looks a solid enough Class 4 for the grade, with the three-year-olds holding a particularly strong hand. Interstate arrives off the back of a breakthrough success and is the obvious one to beat for the Gosdens, while Empirical has been thriving and doesn’t look finished yet after two wins and a second from his last three starts. Law Court has the figures to get involved again and Ryan Moore catches the eye, while Dark Whisper is less exposed than most and could still have a bit more to offer at this trip. The older horses have plenty to prove, with Sweet Reward and Double Red looking vulnerable to younger legs. Not an impossible puzzle, but the market leaders do set a fair standard.
Top Selections
1. Interstate – 7/4 with Bet365
Jockey: William Buick | Trainer: John & Thady Gosden | Form: 02-221 | Rating: 89 | Topspeed: 78
Interstate is hard to oppose after shaping like a horse ready to win for a while and then getting the job done last time. That form string of 02-221 tells its own story: he has been knocking loudly at the door, and the way he has been holding his form suggests this mark is still workable. William Buick is an obvious positive in a race where position and timing will matter, and this looks the sort of Newbury handicap the Gosden team often target well. At 7/4 he is no giveaway, but he does look the likeliest winner if building on that latest success. Bet: WIN
2. Dark Whisper – 8/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Oisin Murphy | Trainer: David Menuisier | Form: 2310 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 58
Dark Whisper makes more each-way appeal than his bare form might suggest. He had shown progressive form before disappointing last time, and I’m inclined to forgive that effort rather than write him off after only four runs. As a three-year-old with just a 135lb burden and Oisin Murphy booked, he has the profile of one who could easily bounce back in a race lacking much depth beyond the first two in the market. The opening mark of 88 doesn’t look harsh if his earlier efforts are taken at face value, and 8/1 feels fair for a horse who still has some upside. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Interstate is the win play and the one with the least guesswork attached after finally getting his head in front. For an each-way punt, Dark Whisper appeals as the more interesting alternative to the obvious second favourite. Empirical is the danger if continuing his rise, while Law Court also has enough class to make the frame if things fall right.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Reward | 20/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Law Court | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Dark Whisper | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Interstate | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 | 7/4 (Bet365) |
| Military Air | 40/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 66/1 | 33/1 | 66/1 (Sky Bet) |
| Empirical | 5/2 | 9/4 | 5/2 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Bet365) |
| Due To Henry | 17/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 17/2 (Bet365) |
| Double Red | 20/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 18/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Lucky Luna | 12/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Newmarket | Interstate |
| Postdata | Law Court |
Newbury Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raintown | 11 | 2 | 18.18% | 36.36% |
| Sweet Reward | 13 | 2 | 15.38% | 38.46% |
| Law Court | 3 | 0 | 0% | 66.67% |
| Double Red | 3 | 0 | 0% | 66.67% |
| Autumn’s Breeze | 3 | 0 | 0% | 66.67% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olivia Tubb | 14 | 4 | 28.57% | 50% |
| Callum Rodriguez | 29 | 6 | 20.69% | 41.38% |
| William Buick | 602 | 106 | 17.61% | 38.54% |
| Oisin Murphy | 554 | 85 | 15.34% | 40.61% |
| Ryan Moore | 111 | 16 | 14.41% | 41.44% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Newbury:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlie Appleby | 184 | 46 | 25% | 50% |
| Charlie Pike | 4 | 1 | 25% | 25% |
| Owen Burrows | 102 | 21 | 20.59% | 46.08% |
| William Haggas | 286 | 58 | 20.28% | 44.41% |
| John & Thady Gosden | 183 | 31 | 16.94% | 44.26% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Newbury racing tips for Friday 18th September 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Newbury today?
The first race at Newbury on Friday 18th September 2026 goes off at 13:47, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Newbury today?
The going at Newbury is reported as GOOD, Good to firm in places.
How many races are at Newbury today?
There are 8 races on the card at Newbury today, running from 13:47 through to 17:50.
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