The stage is set for the 2025 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot on Saturday, 26 July — a race that has already entered the history books as the most valuable ever staged at the iconic track. With just five runners but world-class depth, this 2392-metre Group 1 event promises a compelling showdown.
At the heart of the action is Jan Brueghel, a middle-distance star whose tenacity has won over racing fans and experts alike. Known for pulling off dramatic victories even when under heavy pressure, Jan Brueghel returns to Ascot on the back of a thrilling campaign that showcases both grit and Group 1 class.
The season started with a defeat in a Group 3 at The Curragh, but trainer Aidan O’Brien acknowledged that the race came too soon and took full responsibility for the performance. That run proved to be an outlier. Just weeks later, Jan Brueghel returned to top form, prevailing in a fierce stretch battle at Epsom Downs to capture the Group 1 Coronation Cup over key rival Calandagan.
O’Brien has opted to fit cheekpieces for this pivotal test, suggesting the team is intent on unlocking every ounce of focus and fight. According to the trainer, Jan Brueghel has a habit of digging in late and rarely gives up a lead without a serious battle. Any horse trying to pass will need to do so with intent, because hesitation often plays to Jan Brueghel’s advantage.
A Fierce Rivalry Renewed with Calandagan
Calandagan has been remarkably consistent, with four straight second-place finishes in Group 1 company. While some have questioned the ability to finish the job, the French stable continues to trust the process. They believe those defeats came with valid excuses and point out the calibre of the winners.
Calandagan bounced back from the Epsom defeat with a commanding performance in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud, quickening away impressively in the straight. That effort confirmed the staying power and suggested that another thrilling duel with Jan Brueghel could be on the cards at Ascot.
A strong early pace is anticipated, especially with Continuous in the line-up. The O’Brien runner is expected to go forward early under Wayne Lordan, which should ensure a truly run race — potentially suiting both Jan Brueghel and Calandagan, who thrive on stamina tests.
Rebel’s Romance and Kalpana Bring Experience and Versatility
The globetrotting Rebel’s Romance enters the King George as the most experienced in the field. Representing Godolphin and trainer Charlie Appleby, the runner boasts a remarkable 18 wins from 26 starts, including triumphs in Hong Kong and the UAE. While the record speaks volumes, history is not on the side of older horses in this race, and the question is whether Rebel’s Romance can still match strides with emerging stars like Jan Brueghel.
Kalpana, trained by Andrew Balding, has been a revelation over the past season. Returning to the scene of a brilliant win in the British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes, Kalpana has gone close twice this year over shorter trips at The Curragh. A return to Ascot and a more suitable distance make this an interesting entry.
Why Jan Brueghel Could Be Ascot’s Star of the Summer
A victory in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes would cement Jan Brueghel’s reputation as a true Group 1 titan. With proven battling qualities, strong connections, and an affinity for tough races, Jan Brueghel appears poised to seize the moment. This race could also serve as a stepping stone toward even bigger international targets later in the year — with the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and Breeders’ Cup Turf both likely destinations if Ascot ends in success.
As one of the sport’s most watchable runners, Jan Brueghel combines brilliance with bravery — a rare mix that may just take center stage in Ascot’s richest-ever race.
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