City Of Troy
Form: 11-911
Strengths: Often compared to Frankel, City Of Troy has an impressive record with just one blemish—a ninth-place finish in the 2,000 Guineas. He rebounded by winning the Derby and last month's Eclipse, where the runner-up, Al Riffa, won the Group 1 Grosser Preis von Berlin. His two-year-old form, including victories over Haatem and Alyanaabi, adds to his credentials.
Weaknesses: The going at York is currently good to firm, which may not suit City Of Troy, who has not raced on faster than good ground. His best performances have been on softer ground.
Odds: 4-6
Ambiente Friendly
Form: 3-4123
Strengths: Consistently performed well since reappearing in April, including a strong second in the Derby and a solid effort in the Irish Derby. Dropping back on a trip could benefit him.
Weaknesses: Needs to reverse the Derby form with City Of Troy. The different galloping nature of York compared to the Curragh might affect his performance.
Odds: 8-1
Alflaila
Form: /15-41
Strengths: Despite being five, Alflaila remains relatively unexposed. Recent victories include the York Stakes, where he defeated King's Gambit. His fifth place in the Irish Champion Stakes has worked out well.
Weaknesses: Prefers to sit at the rear and may struggle if there’s no pace up front.
Odds: 8-1
Calandagan
Form: 1-2111
Strengths: On a winning streak, including an impressive debut in the King Edward VII Stakes. Has shown strong stamina and fast finishing.
Weaknesses: The drop in trip from 1m4f to 1m2f is a concern. The form from the King Edward VII Stakes has not worked out well for subsequent runners.
Odds: 8-1
White Birch
Form: 84-111
Strengths: Significantly improved this season, including a victory in the Tattersalls Gold Cup. Shows potential and has continued to develop.
Weaknesses: Has been off the track for 87 days and missed the Eclipse due to a blood test issue.
Odds: 16-1
Others to Watch: Zarakem and Durezza bring strong international competition. Ghostwriter’s recent career-best effort and King’s Gambit’s potential first Group 1 challenge add to the intrigue.
Verdict: City Of Troy is the likely favourite for continued Group 1 success, but Alflaila’s strong form and preference for York make him a formidable challenger.