The 2025 Derby Festival began in elegant fashion at Epsom Downs on Friday, with the opening day highlighted by an emphatic victory from Formal in the Listed Nyetimber Surrey Stakes. The promising filly, now under the guidance of trainer Andrew Balding, put a lackluster seasonal debut behind her to deliver a commanding win under the skilled hands of Oisin Murphy.
Previously trained by the legendary Sir Michael Stoute, Formal was a picture of professionalism this time around. Settling nicely into the seven-furlong contest, she surged ahead in the final furlong to clinch a clear-cut length and a half victory over Saqqara Sands. Balding, clearly pleased with the result, praised her performance and hinted at a patient campaign moving forward, likely targeting the Oak Tree Stakes at Goodwood in late July.
He explained that her earlier outing in the Fred Darling Stakes had been compromised by race interference, which led connections to pivot away from the Guineas and instead aim for a confidence-building win at Epsom. Balding also noted that removing the hood today helped the filly settle better and showcase her strong cruising speed without over-exerting early on.
Saqqara Sands, trained by Ralph Beckett, ran a game second despite lacking recent match fitness. Beckett confirmed that the Eternal Stakes at Carlisle is likely to be her next assignment, confident she’ll progress with that run under her belt.
James Doyle, who partnered Diego Ventura into third place, noted the testing nature of the turf. While not unfavorable, the ground’s dead quality may not have suited his mount, who he believes would prefer a stiffer seven furlongs to truly shine.
In the British EBF Woodcote Stakes, another standout emerged as Maximized, trained by Charlie Appleby, justified favouritism with an impressive display under William Buick. The precocious Mehmas colt was too strong for Havana Hurricane, winning by a comfortable margin and cementing his status among Godolphin’s exciting juveniles.
Appleby praised Maximized’s straightforward attitude and hinted at future plans, possibly eyeing the July Stakes, with Royal Ascot under consideration depending on conditions. While he acknowledged the colt’s unsuitability for certain races due to his sire’s limitations, the overall message was clear: this is a talented two-year-old with a big future.
Buick echoed the sentiment, complimenting the colt’s workmanlike temperament and ease of execution. Meanwhile, Eve Johnson Houghton was delighted with Havana Hurricane’s runner-up effort. Despite encountering difficulty handling Epsom’s undulations and perhaps moving too early in the race, the trainer lauded the colt’s heart and ability.
With big names like Desert Flower and Ruling Court still to come for Godolphin in the Oaks and Derby respectively, day one of the festival hinted at the high-quality action still to unfold at Epsom Downs.
