Doyle Confident in Bradsell Ahead of Nunthorpe Stakes Showdown at York

Hollie Doyle is brimming with confidence as she prepares to partner Bradsell in the Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes at York on Friday. The speedy son of Tasleet is back at the Knavesmire with a mission to claim Group One glory, and Doyle believes he has what it takes to make his mark in one of the most fiercely contested sprints of the season.

Trained by Archie Watson, Bradsell made a name for himself with dual Royal Ascot victories and finished third in this very race last year. That performance saw him finish behind surprise winner Live In The Dream and the ever-consistent Highfield Princess. Now, as the star mount for Doyle during York’s prestigious Ebor Festival, the four-year-old returns to Yorkshire looking to improve on that result and solidify his place among the sprinting elite.

Having returned from a lengthy 329-day layoff earlier this month, Bradsell was back in top form with a commanding win in the Prix du Cercle at Deauville. That performance gave a clear signal that the gelding remains a formidable force, and Doyle is optimistic that he can rise to the occasion once again in a race that features a top-class international field, including Australian speedster Asfoora and Mick Appleby’s Breeders’ Cup hero Big Evs.

“We know he’s a very good horse on his day, and I thought his reappearance run in Deauville was very smooth – I liked the way he hit the line,” Doyle told TalkSPORT 2. “He’s been in amazing form since that, and you never know what he’s capable of – he’s full of surprises!”

Doyle also touched on the unpredictable nature of sprint races, acknowledging that the smallest margins can often determine the outcome. “I think sprint form can be turned around. You can run the same race three or four times and get a different winner. It’s all about which horse is in the best condition on the day,” she added.

The Nunthorpe Stakes is known for producing thrilling finishes, and with Bradsell among the favorites, expectations are high. Doyle, who continues to be a trailblazer in the sport, is no stranger to delivering on the big stage and is hoping to add another top-level success to her impressive CV.

Reflecting on the upcoming four-day festival at York, Doyle expressed her enthusiasm for the track and the event. “I love York, it’s a great track with a fantastic atmosphere. I could do with a bit more luck there, but it’s something I look forward to every year. Hopefully, I can ride a winner or two.”

As the excitement builds for the Nunthorpe Stakes, all eyes will be on Bradsell and Doyle as they take on some of the fastest horses in Europe. With a blend of raw speed, proven class, and the confidence of one of the sport’s top jockeys, Bradsell is set to be right in the thick of the action in what promises to be a high-octane sprint showdown on Friday.