King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes Set for Stellar Showdown at Ascot

Ascot, July 23, 2025 — Anticipation is building ahead of this Saturday’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (G1) at Ascot, one of the crown jewels of the British Flat racing season. With a field of eight top-class runners declared, the £1.5 million contest promises a thrilling clash of generations over the historic 1 mile, 3 furlongs, and 211 yards.

The going at Ascot is currently described as good, with the warm and dry forecast potentially pushing it towards good to firm by race day. Ground conditions will likely be a critical factor as trainers finalize preparations for their elite contenders.

This year’s line-up features a fascinating mix of proven Group 1 performers and emerging three-year-old stars, setting the stage for one of the most competitive King Georges in recent memory.

Star-Studded Line-Up

Among the leading fancies is Jan Brueghel, trained by Aidan O’Brien, who arrives in peak form after Group victories in Ireland and France this season. Stablemates Lambourn, Continuous, and Whirl will also line up for Ballydoyle, giving O’Brien a strong hand in his quest for a sixth King George win.

Also prominent in the betting is last year’s Breeders’ Cup Turf winner Rebel’s Romance, the globetrotting seven-year-old representing Charlie Appleby and Godolphin, ridden by William Buick. With back-to-back victories in Dubai and Germany under his belt this season, he’s expected to be a major force in the closing stages.

Four-year-old filly Kalpana, trained by Andrew Balding and piloted by Oisin Murphy, adds further intrigue. Progressive throughout the season, she bids to emulate the likes of Enable and Dahlia by toppling colts at the highest level.

France is represented by Calandagan, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, and in the capable hands of Mickaël Barzalona. This colt has earned plaudits for his consistency and strong form against international rivals.

Completing the field is the improving Green Impact, trained by Jessica Harrington and expected to make a bold bid for Ireland.

A Battle of Generations

Three-year-olds have a strong recent record in the King George, taking advantage of an 11-pound weight allowance from older horses. That trend will be put to the test as this year’s Classic generation faces off against battle-hardened older rivals with Group 1 credentials.

With £850,650 going to the winner, the stakes are high—not just in terms of prize money, but also prestige and potential implications for autumn races like the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

What’s Next

Post time is set for 3:40 PM BST on Saturday, July 26. The race will be broadcast live on ITV in the UK and streamed globally across various racing platforms.

As the sun sets over Berkshire this weekend, all eyes will be on Ascot, where champions are made and legends often born. Whether it’s youth or experience that wins out, the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in racing history.

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