A total of 151 horses remain in contention following the second entry stage for the five Group races at Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot, setting the stage for some thrilling clashes. The races include the Champion Stakes, Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, British Champions Sprint, Long Distance Cup, and the Fillies & Mares Stakes.
William Haggas' Economics is the favourite for the Qipco Champion Stakes after his victory in the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown. However, he faces stiff competition, with French star Calandagan among his likely challengers. Aidan O’Brien’s elite trio—City Of Troy, Los Angeles, and Auguste Rodin—remain entered but are being pointed toward alternative international races.
In the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, Roger Varian’s Charyn aims to cap off a stellar season after winning the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Prix Jacques le Marois. Varian is optimistic despite a narrow defeat in the Prix du Moulin, stating, "He’s in great form, and Ascot is the plan."
The Long Distance Cup features last year's winner Kyprios, who will first contest the Prix du Cadran, along with other notable entries such as Trawlerman, Sweet William, and the three-time champion Trueshan. Al Nayyir, the rising star in the staying division, is also set to challenge after an impressive victory in the Rose Bowl at Newmarket.
For the British Champions Sprint, Montassib, who recently won the Sprint Cup at Haydock, is among 33 contenders, alongside rivals like Kinross, Mill Stream, and Kind Of Blue.
The Fillies & Mares Stakes has 29 entries, including high-profile names like Bluestocking, Kalpana, Opera Singer, Content, and Emily Upjohn, ensuring a highly competitive race.