Lazzat carved his name into the Royal Ascot history books with a memorable victory in the prestigious Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, marking a milestone for French racing. Trained by Jerome Reynier and ridden by James Doyle, the four-year-old colt surged past the competition in a thrilling final stretch, holding off a late challenge from Japanese contender Satono Reve to win by half a length.
The triumph was particularly significant as Lazzat became the first French-trained horse to win this elite sprint since the Second World War. The win also capped a sensational week for Wathnan Racing, who now boast five victories at this year’s Royal Ascot.
Lazzat’s journey to the top has been anything but conventional. After showcasing his class with a dominant win in Chantilly earlier this year, the colt caught the eye of Wathnan Racing, who swiftly added him to their team. Despite concerns over his stamina after globe-trotting appearances in Australia and Hong Kong, the connections wisely kept him focused on sprinting, where he’s clearly most comfortable.
In Saturday’s high-octane six-furlong test, the race quickly turned into a two-horse duel. While Satono Reve, carrying heavy market support, looked poised to pass late, Lazzat found a second gear. James Doyle’s confidence in the horse’s resolve paid off as Lazzat responded with grit, determination, and a powerful finish.
Trainer Jerome Reynier, elated with his first Royal Ascot success, was quick to praise Lazzat’s heart and versatility. Despite earlier efforts to stretch the horse over a mile, Reynier now plans to keep him in top-level sprints. Options on the horizon include defending his title in the Maurice de Gheest, the Sprint Cup, or even a return to Ascot in October, conditions permitting.
Doyle, registering his 26th Royal Ascot win, credited Reynier and the team for preparing Lazzat so well. He noted the colt’s determination: “When Satono Reve loomed up beside us, Lazzat pinned his ears back and just wouldn’t let him by.”
The performance also drew admiration from Wathnan Racing’s Richard Brown, who hailed it as the highlight of a phenomenal week. He acknowledged the strength of the Japanese challenger and the significance of beating such top-tier international talent in a field of 14 runners.
Satono Reve’s jockey Joao Moreira reflected on a gallant effort, praising his mount for pushing Lazzat to the limit. “We gave everything, but Lazzat just had more in the tank,” he admitted.
Also flying the flag for Wathnan Racing was Flora Of Bermuda, who finished a creditable third, three lengths behind the leading pair. Though she was slightly keen early on, her performance suggested that a big win may be on the cards soon.
From his early promise to his emergence as a Group 1 sprinting star, Lazzat’s win underlined the importance of international talent at Royal Ascot. With Reynier’s thoughtful training, Doyle’s tactical ride, and Wathnan Racing’s sharp acquisition, the French colt has rightfully earned his place among sprinting royalty.
