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King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes: all you need to know for the big day

When is it, where is it, and who should you back?

The day she dug deepest: Crystal Ocean makes Enable pull out all the stops at Ascot
Enable and Crystal Ocean battled it out in the Ascot highlight last yearCredit: Mark Cranham

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is one of the premier middle-distance races in Britain. It is run at Ascot over a mile and a half for colts and fillies aged three or over, with this year's contest due off at 3.35pm on Saturday, July 25.

The race will be shown live on ITV and Sky Sports Racing, while you can also keep up to date on the Racing Post website and mobile app. Most betting shops are open.

What is the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, and why is it so important?

The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is one of the most prestigious contests for middle-distance horses in the world.

Aureole struck for the Queen in the 1954 renewal
Aureole struck for the Queen in the 1954 renewalCredit: Edward Whitaker

The first running took place in 1951, when Supreme Court struck for Evan Williams, and was soon followed by a famous triumph for the Queen's Aureole (1954).

As the race is open to both three-year-olds and older horses, it often results in some of the Classic generation taking their chance for such a lucrative prize.

Who is running in the 2020 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?

The Khalid Abdullah-owned Enable lines up, bidding to become the first in history to record a hat-trick in the race. She could be joined by the John Gosden-trained stablemate Fanny Logan, winner of the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Aidan O'Brien, successful in the race with the likes of Galileo and Highland Reel, will undoubtedly saddle a strong challenge. Juddmonte International winner Japan, star mare Magical and 2019 Derby winner Anthony Van Dyck are among his possible contenders.

There could be French representation in the form of Sottsass. The Prix Ganay winner was third in the Arc last year for Jean-Claude Rouget and would be a leading fancy to dethrone Enable.

Which horses have won the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes?

Last year's race was won by Enable, who defied Crystal Ocean in a thrilling battle up the home straight. It was a second win of the season for John Gosden's superstar mare and her ninth Group 1 victory.

Mick Kinane glances at the big screen as Montjeu eases clear of Fantastic Light (blaze) and Daliapour in the 2000 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes
Mick Kinane glances at the big screen as Montjeu eases clear of Fantastic Light (blaze) and Daliapour in the 2000 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth StakesCredit: Edward Whitaker

Some all-time greats have won this famous contest, ranging from Nijinsky, Mill Reef and Shergar to Nashwan, Montjeu and Lammtarra.

Khalid Abdullah first success in the race came with the brilliant Dancing Brave in 1986, and he searches for a fourth victory with Enable.

Who should I back?

The question everybody wants answered!

Have a look at the King George card and keep checking the Racing Post website, mobile app and newspaper for all our expert betting advice and news in the run up to the meeting.


Members can read the latest exclusive interviews, news analysis and comment available from 6pm daily on racingpost.com


Kitty TriceBloodstock journalist

Published on 20 July 2020inNews

Last updated 15:35, 19 July 2020

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