King’s Gambit shall return to York following his unexpected defeat

King’s Gambit might return to York next month following his close second-place finish there on Saturday.

The three-year-old impressed with a win in the London Gold Cup at Newbury, and was seen as unlucky when finishing second to Jayarebe in the Hampton Court Stakes at Royal Ascot. In the Sky Bet York Stakes, he led for most of the race but was caught late by Alflaila in a slowly-run contest.

Trainer Harry Charlton feels the race didn’t suit King’s Gambit and is considering another York appearance at the Ebor meeting.

Charlton said, “We were pleased with him, though the race wasn’t run to our advantage. We’re likely more suited to 12 furlongs than 10, and a sprint wasn’t ideal, but he ran well and looked relaxed.”

King’s Gambit is entered in both the Great Voltigeur Stakes and the Juddmonte International. Charlton will discuss options with owner Mohammed Jaber before finalising plans. 

Charlton added, “We’ll talk to Mohammed Jaber about the options and decide whether to head to York or consider other plans.”