1

Juan Elcano

A relatively unexposed four-year-old. Recent starts suggest that he can live with top company class at around this trip. He also seems especially brave given the way he battled when second in a G2 here last month.

2

Mishriff

Earlier this year powerful stretch surges saw wins in the world’s richest race – the Saudi Cup – and a G1 in Meydan, over contrasting distances and surfaces. Third and second in G1’s at Sandown and Ascot – fine efforts in defeat for this tough, versatile horse.

3

Love

Her three starts in 2020 resulted in three wide margin G1 victories. She kicked off 2021 with a G1 victory on the fast ground that suits her best, leading throughout. Maybe lacked the same zip when third in an Ascot G1 in July, a small field but a red-hot race.

4

Alenquer

Beat subsequent Epsom Derby and brilliant G1 Ascot winner Adayar at Sandown on his 2021 return. Then finished powerfully to win a Royal Ascot G2 later doing his best work at the finish when third in a 2400m Longchamp G1. May need slow ground at this trip.

5

Mac Swiney

Now twice a 1600m G1 winner – both on the slow ground that suits best. Not so good in two subsequent G1 starts so this looks challenging against such high grade rivals.

6

Mohaafeth

Climbed up the ladder fast, especially stylish over 2000m at Newmarket after which he was fancied for the Derby, pulled out because of slow ground. Then won a G3 at Royal Ascot, but, slow from the gate and behind, he could only run third in a G2 here last time.

7

Alcohol Free

Moves up in distance, the big question. But has proven brilliant over around 1600m, winning G1’s on two of her last three starts and a close third in the other. Her defeat of super colt Poetic Flare in a rough race at Goodwood last time was a career best.