Royal Ascot’s second day on Wednesday, 17 June, is set to produce one of the most eagerly anticipated contests of the summer as two of the world’s leading middle-distance performers, Ombudsman and Daryz, prepare to meet in the Group 1 Prince Of Wales’s Stakes over 2005 metres.
The race has generated considerable interest among racing followers, bringing together proven Group 1 performers with contrasting profiles and a supporting cast capable of upsetting the market leaders on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
Prince Of Wales’s Stakes 2026.
Ombudsman arrives at Ascot carrying a formidable record and the confidence that comes with having already conquered this race. His victory in last year’s renewal remains fresh in the memory, particularly the manner in which he accelerated once a gap finally appeared in the straight. What initially looked a difficult position quickly transformed into a decisive winning move as the colt displayed the turn of foot that has become his trademark.
That success was followed by further elite-level victories in the International Stakes at York and the Dubai Turf at Meydan, confirming his standing among the world’s premier middle-distance horses. After a brief break, he returned this season with a narrow success in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown, where he defeated the progressive Gethin by a neck.
Jockey William Buick was encouraged by that effort despite the tight margin.
“There was never a moment’s worry. He had to give weight to some genuine Stakes performers, but John and Thady Gosden had him spot on for what he needed to do there and he is a horse who will always do what is needed,” Buick said.
A genuinely run race on quick ground is expected to suit Ombudsman, whose finishing speed remains one of his greatest assets.
Standing in his way is the exceptionally talented Daryz, whose reputation soared after last year’s dramatic Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe triumph. The powerful son of Sea The Stars edged out Minnie Hauk by a head in Paris and has since demonstrated remarkable versatility by successfully dropping back in distance.
His victories in this year’s Prix Ganay and Prix d’Ispahan showcased a devastating burst of acceleration, performances that even surprised trainer Francis-Henri Graffard.
“He amazed me with his powerful turn of foot in those two races this spring. We need to look after him carefully as he is a strong and powerful horse who likes to dictate what he wants to do, but I think I have him where I want him physically and mentally in preparation for this great race at Ascot,” Graffard said.
With Mickael Barzalona once again taking the ride, Daryz brings outstanding credentials into what promises to be a fascinating tactical contest.
While much of the attention has centred on the two headline acts, the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes field contains several other accomplished performers capable of making their presence felt.
Among them is Minnie Hauk, whose achievements include victories in the English Oaks, Irish Oaks and Yorkshire Oaks before finishing second in the Arc. Her disappointing effort in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh last month has been largely forgiven by connections.
Trainer Aidan O’Brien believes circumstances were against her on that occasion.
“We’ve just put a line through her run there. What happened was that the pace went out of the race and she had no chance from where she was. Ryan looked after her once her chance had gone,” O’Brien explained.
Another major contender is Almaqam, who has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign. The Ed Walker-trained colt produced an authoritative performance to win the Tattersalls Gold Cup before confirming that form with a Group 1 success in the Coronation Cup at Epsom. Conditions featuring some ease in the ground would likely enhance his prospects.
The Prince Of Wales’s Stakes 2026 has all the ingredients of a memorable championship contest. With established stars, proven Group 1 form and differing tactical approaches set to collide, Royal Ascot spectators could be treated to one of the defining races of the season.
The feature contest is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 17 June, and stands as the centrepiece of an outstanding second day at Royal Ascot.
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