The Group 1 Coronation Stakes delivered one of the most surprising outcomes of the 2025 Royal Ascot meeting, as unfancied runner Cercene triumphed against more heralded opposition. Sent off at odds of 33/1, she defied market expectations to clinch a memorable victory that held profound significance for both her trainer, Joseph Murphy, and jockey, Gary Carroll.
Throughout her career, Cercene has shown glimpses of promise, notably when placing in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. But few anticipated that she would steal the spotlight on one of racing’s biggest stages. Tactically astute and unfazed by pressure, she followed a lively early tempo before demonstrating immense resolve in the final stages. As Zarigana, the heavily-backed French contender, made her move, Cercene dug in with fierce determination and reclaimed the lead to win by half a length. January, trained by Aidan O’Brien, finished third, another length adrift.
This breakthrough marked a watershed moment for Murphy, who has spent half a century building his training operation. From humble beginnings and a shift from National Hunt to Flat racing, his journey has been defined by persistence and belief. That long-awaited Group 1 success has now become a reality with a filly who combines grit with a strong pedigree. Cercene is by Australia, and her dam Tschierschen previously produced a Royal Ascot winner in Perotto, offering a solid genetic foundation that has now blossomed on the grandest stage.
Carroll, too, experienced a career milestone. A seasoned rider with numerous near-misses at the top level, he has been closely associated with Murphy since his apprentice days. That loyalty and experience came full circle as he steered Cercene to a victory that will remain etched in his memory. He noted her bravery, especially when headed briefly in the final furlong, only for her to rally and fight back to the front.
While the French camp expressed some frustration with Zarigana‘s behavior after hitting the front—where she seemed to lose focus—her overall effort earned praise. Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard acknowledged her quality and confirmed her value as a future broodmare. Princess Zahra Aga Khan echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the wellbeing of both their runners and drawing parallels between Zarigana and her illustrious lineage.
For O’Brien’s January, the race didn’t unfold ideally, but there was optimism about her future prospects. The team hinted at further opportunities, possibly at Newmarket, where she may develop further with a more favorable setup.
Cercene‘s performance has not only etched her name in Royal Ascot history as the longest-priced winner of the Coronation Stakes but also served as a triumphant culmination of Murphy’s decades-long pursuit of Group 1 glory. For the team behind her, and for those who backed belief over odds, it was a day to remember.
