Key stat, analysis and trainers' thoughts on the Diomed Stakes at Newbury

MansionBet's Beaten By A Head Diomed Stakes (Group 3) | 1m | 3yo+ | ITV4/RTV

The bare facts of what the Diomed represents have not changed for its temporary move away from Epsom. It is still a race for those milers whose connections have decided the Queen Anne is a bridge too far.

The only subtle difference is King Of Comedy is presumably here through a lack of readiness rather than ability. He was beaten a neck in last year's St James's Palace (arguably shaped best), then was a two-lengths fourth in the Juddmonte International. He appeals as more of a 1m2f horse this year, but a straight mile should not pose too many issues as long as he is fit.

Century Dream and Stormy Antarctic tend to make the running when nothing else will. Both have their best days at Group level when taken abroad, which tells of their limitations but the second-named at least has unquestionable Group 3 quality. Tabarrak and Zaaki have an interest in an even gallop, having a tendency to race freely otherwise.

Tabarrak proved as good as ever as a six-year-old last year. On the trajectory he was following he would be high on the shortlist, but note the stuttering start last year. He has generally needed his first run of the season, so watch how he shapes for next time.

The defending champion is Zaaki, whose turn of foot can make him deadly in small-field lesser Group races. As has been alluded to, the chances of him getting a race run to suit are less than usual for a race of this nature, so defending his title will probably require him to be at his very best.
Keith Melrose, betting editor

Key stat

Tabarrak is unbeaten in three starts at Newbury, albeit all were over 7f rather than 1m.

What they say

Simon Crisford, joint-trainer of Century Dream
He's fresh and well and I think they're getting a bit of rain at Newbury, which will suit him, although the ground is fine right now.

Alan King, trainer of Chatez
He was being prepared for the Lincoln, which didn’t happen, and, though this is a big ask, conditions will help and the old boy is in great order for a nine-year-old.

David Menuisier, trainer of History Writer
He produced a career best to win his last start in France and he's a soft ground horse, so we'd like as much rain as possible. We're under no illusions it's a tough race for him but he's in good form and it's a good place to start.

John Gosden, trainer of King Of Comedy
He's had a long time off and this looks a good race to start him off in.

Richard Hannon, trainer of Tabarrak
He’s consistent and has a great attitude. He’s probably better over seven furlongs but he’s won over this trip before and likes the track.
Reporting by Peter Scargill

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