The 2026 renewal of Royal Ascot gets underway next week.
Five days of world-class flat racing from June 16-20, it is an event which never disappoints.
And to help get you in the mood, we have made our picks for some of the biggest races at Royal Ascot 2026.
As always, all the best horse racing odds are availabe to view on our sports betting website, and keep a close eye on our promotions page for exclusive Ascot offers.
Written by Jake Wilkes
*All odds are subject to change
Queen Anne Stakes – Docklands (11/2)
Taking on Notable Speech breaks my heart but putting my love for the horse to one side, Charlie Appleby’s Ascot record is underwhelming and at such short odds, I feel the need to take him on. Docklands won this race last year, taking his incredible Ascot record to three wins from eight starts and placing a further four times. He is versatile ground wise and has continued in good form this year, winning on seasonal debut at Doncaster before outrunning his 18/1 odds when finishing third in Sha Tin. At worst, Docklands looks a solid each-way bet, as he shouldn’t be out the places if he runs to form.
St James’s Palace Stakes – Bow Echo (4/5)
Field Of Gold was exceptional in this contest last year, producing probably the second-most impressive performance I’ve ever been trackside for. I am hoping we may see something similar from Bow Echo, who was faultless when winning the 2000 Guineas last month. He renews his rivalry with Gstaad, who won the 2025 Coventry Stakes and is massively respected, with slight improvement also expected. However, Bow Echo shows no signs of slowing down and can add a second Group 1 victory to his CV.
Prince Of Wales’s Stakes – Ombudsman (13/8)
Whilst this is no doubt a deeper renewal of the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes, Ombudsman was scintillating 12 months ago – and I think will take a bit of beating in defence of his crown. He made hard work of winning on his first appearance of the season at Sandown, but he had to give his chief rival seven pounds, and it was well known before he was lacking in fitness. He is taking on Arc winner Daryz, which is the fundamental reason I said it is a deeper race, but soft ground may see him to best effect – and without rain I think Ombudsman may have too much speed.
Royal Ascot Gold Cup – Scandinavia (5/4)
Without doubt the best bet of the week, Scandinavia should confirm he is the best stayer in training by winning the Ascot Gold Cup. He is all stamina and gives very similar vibes to two-time winner Kyprios, who both seem to get better the further they go. He is efficient, often only winning by a small distance, but gives the impression that he keeps something in reserve. Last year’s winner Trawlerman has not had a run this season and this may find him out. He won 12 months ago but he was race-fit and did not have to contend with a horse like Scandinavia.
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