Royal Ascot 2025 Opens With Ruling Court, Field Of Gold Rematch

Royal Ascot 2025, running from June 17-21, promises a thrilling five-day horse racing festival with total prize money exceeding £10 million and a strong international presence. The opening day features a highly anticipated rematch in the Group One St James’s Palace Stakes between Godolphin's Ruling Court and Juddmonte's Field Of Gold, who previously battled in the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket. Field Of Gold, having won the Irish Guineas with jockey Colin Keane, is favored by some to perform well on Ascot's expected dry ground, while Ruling Court, withdrawn from the Epsom Derby due to soft ground, is expected to be fresher and competitive. Other key races include the Queen Anne Stakes and the King Charles III Stakes, featuring top sprinters like Asfoora and Believing, as well as the 2-year-old Coventry Stakes showcasing promising young talent. The event also highlights Ladies’ Day on Thursday, known for its fashion and social prominence, and marks the 200th anniversary of the Royal procession. Leading trainer Aidan O’Brien and jockey Ryan Moore are strong contenders expected to dominate the meeting, with O’Brien aiming for his 10th St James’s Palace win and Moore seeking his fourth consecutive leading rider title.