Football's coming home? Bryony Frost hopes so as she rides for England

Haydock's Betfair Chase meeting will get off to an unusual start on Saturday as six horses bid to predict the winner of the Fifa World Cup.

The Betfair Race to the World Cup Stakes will feature runners representing the six leading nations in the betting for the football tournament, which gets under way in Qatar on Sunday.

Horses running for England, France, Argentina, Brazil, Germany and Spain will compete in a five-furlong sprint partnered by leading jump jockeys.

Current World Cup holders France will be represented by champion jockey Brian Hughes, while Bryony Frost will ride for England. Harry Skelton, Jack Quinlan and Paddy Brennan also booked to ride.

Frost said: "I'm delighted to be representing England in the Betfair Race to the World Cup Stakes at Haydock this weekend.

"After England's heartbreaking loss against Italy at the Euros, the success of the Lionesses this summer showed the great strength of English football and hopefully the men's team can repeat that at the World Cup.

"I've been lucky to have some memorable rides with Frodon and there is nothing better than riding a fan favourite, so hopefully I can bring football home at Haydock on Saturday."

Bryony Frost: riding in unique opener at HaydockCredit: Alan Crowhurst

The race opens Saturday's Grade 1 meeting at 11.30 and will be broadcast on ITV and Racing TV, although there will be no betting available.

Former England manager Glenn Hoddle will be there to present the winner's trophy for the race, which has been supported by the Professional Jockeys Association, BHA and the Jockey Club.

Betfair have pledged to donate £10,000 to the Injured Jockeys Fund on behalf of all the connections who helped facilitate the race.

Read more on Saturday's racing:

Betfair Chase: A Plus Tard 'will be fine on the ground' says bullish De Bromhead

One trainer, one jockey, one horse and one race to watch on Saturday

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