The six-million dollar questions

Can the four-year-olds dominate again?

Seven of the last ten winners have been aged four, including the last four. At the entry stage – the race attracted a mammoth 109 with only 30 available spots – ten four-year-olds were guaranteed a run, narrowing the field significantly for those looking to capitalise on a clear trend in the race.

Logic would suggest those aged four have the relatively unexposed profile winners of this race typically need, and the likes of New Graduate, Key Victory and King’s Field are likely to feature on plenty of shortlists. Stylehunter, a never-nearer sixth in last season’s Britannia, would be a fascinating contender if sneaking into the race.

Will Ascot form come to the fore?

Ascot winners regularly make success something of a habit here and several course winners could line up.

Victoria Cup hero Cape

Byron has always threatened to be better than a handicapper and, given he was always holding Kyrnen, the extra furlong is unlikely to be a concern.

Last year’s winner Settle For Bay could be back for more, while Lush Life, Beshaayir, Blue Mist, Elector and Raising Sand have course wins on their CVS.