Calandagan and a Strong International Contingent Eye Glory in York’s Juddmonte International

All eyes are on York this week as a star-studded field assembles for the Juddmonte International, with Francis-Henri Graffard’s Royal Ascot winner, Calandagan, ready to step into the limelight. The Gleneagles gelding faces a formidable line-up that includes Derby and Eclipse winner City Of Troy, Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly, and a host of international challengers in what promises to be one of the most competitive renewals in the race’s history.

Calandagan has shown remarkable consistency throughout the season, starting with a strong second in a Listed contest at Saint-Cloud before going on to claim the Group Three Prix Noailles and Prix Hocquart at ParisLongchamp, both on testing ground. However, it was his adaptability that really caught attention when he triumphed on good to firm going in the Group Two King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Trainer Graffard is optimistic that Calandagan is ready to make his mark at the highest level as the gelding steps up to Group One company for the first time in this leg of the Qipco British Champions Series.

“He’s in great form,” said Graffard. “We gave him some time after his win at Ascot, and he’s been training well. York’s big, galloping track and long straight should suit him, and we’re eager to see how he measures up against such a high-class field. He was a challenging horse as a two-year-old, but gelding him has brought out the best in him, and he’s a different animal now.”

While the competition is fierce, Graffard’s confidence in Calandagan’s progress and versatility offers a strong sense of hope for a bold showing against Europe’s elite.

The Juddmonte International is set to provide a true test of class, with Zarakem, another French contender trained by Jerome Reynier, also eyeing success. The four-year-old was a surprise package when finishing second in the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, proving he could handle firm ground after previously disappointing in the Prix Ganay. For Reynier, York represents a key stepping stone towards the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in October.

“This is a very strong field, but Zarakem showed at Ascot that he belongs at this level,” Reynier commented. “The long straight at York and a decent pace should suit him, and we’re using this race as a perfect trial for the Arc.”

British hopes are also well-represented, with Clive Cox’s Ghostwriter, who was third in the Eclipse, among the leading domestic challengers. Despite being drawn wide in stall 13, Cox remains positive about his charge’s chances.

“We knew this would be one of the toughest races of the year, and we’re up for the challenge,” Cox said. “Ghostwriter’s form stacks up well, especially with Al Riffa going on to win in Germany, and although the draw isn’t ideal, we’re confident he’ll give a strong account of himself.”

Japan’s Durezza, winner of the Japanese St Leger, makes his UK debut, adding further international flavor to the race. Despite his St Leger success, connections believe his best distance lies between 10 furlongs and a mile and a half, making the Juddmonte a suitable target.

“He has versatility and class,” said Yusuke Sai, racing manager for Northern Farm. “He’s shown he can handle varying distances, and we believe York’s conditions will play to his strengths.”

Adding to the depth of the field, the Owen Burrows-trained Alflaila returns to a course he knows well, having already won the Group Three Strensall Stakes and Group Two York Stakes twice. Despite the stiff competition, connections are optimistic about his chances.

“He’s always been just below Group One level, but he loves York, and that could be an edge,” said Angus Gold, racing manager for Shadwell. “He’s consistent and has a great attitude—if everything goes right, we think he’ll be in the mix.”

The highly regarded Maljoom, trained by William Haggas, also steps up in trip after an impressive second in the Sussex Stakes. His jockey, Tom Marquand, is confident that the extended distance will bring out the best in him.

Meanwhile, Israr, who landed the Listed Wolferton Stakes at Royal Ascot, takes his chance at Group One level under the guidance of Richard Hills. Hills noted, “He’s earned his spot here. York’s fast ground and conditions should suit him, and we’re expecting a big run.”

With so much talent from across Europe and beyond, this year’s Juddmonte International is set to be a captivating contest. As the field lines up on the Knavesmire, Calandagan and his rivals will look to seize their moment on one of racing’s grandest stages.