Rodin could join the ranks of Derby winners

The Group 1 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot on Saturday features a strong challenge from Aidan O’Brien, led by last year's winner Auguste Rodin. The 1 1/2-mile race serves as an automatic qualifier for the Breeders' Cup Turf, a title Rodin claimed the previous year. He recently showcased his form by winning the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, marking his sixth Group 1 victory.

If Rodin wins, he will join the ranks of Derby winners who have triumphed in the King George at the age of 4, alongside Royal Palace (1968) and Teenoso (1984). O’Brien also fields Luxembourg, a four-time Group 1 winner, and Hans Andersen in the race. O’Brien noted the importance of King George in his training career, reminiscing about his past successes with horses like Galileo and Dylan Thomas.

O’Brien expressed confidence in Rodin’s preparation, highlighting plans for a post-race venture to the Japan Cup. Luxembourg, who won the Coronation Cup, is also in good form heading into the race.

The competitive lineup includes Godolphin’s Rebel’s Romance, a notable performer in four countries, and recent Pretty Polly Stakes winner Bluestocking. Other contenders are Dubai Honour, who enjoyed success in Australia last year, and Sunway, the Irish Derby runner-up. The French entry Goliath, along with Middle Earth, adds further depth to the race.

This prestigious event is part of the British Champions Series, showcasing top-tier flat racing talent.