New-Look Windsor Castle Stakes to be Staged at Royal Ascot from 2026

[Wandering Eyes]

The Windsor Castle Stakes at Royal Ascot will be run over six furlongs from 2026, as well as being restricted to two-year-olds whose sire won a race over at least seven furlongs (1400m) at the age of two, or at least a mile (1600m) at the age of three and upwards.

The changes were announced on Tuesday by the British Horseracing Authority's Flat Pattern Committee (FPC) and follow the Group 1 upgrades announced in February by the European Pattern Committee (EPC), with the aim of safeguarding the production, retention and racing of quality horses with stamina in European Flat racing.

The Windsor Castle, which currently takes place on the Wednesday of Royal Ascot, has been run over five furlongs since being awarded Listed status in 2004.

Ruth Quinn, director of international racing and development at the BHA, said, “Whilst a change such as this in isolation will not materially alter the landscape, it is hoped that such a move, in tandem with further tactical adjustments, will continue to focus minds and add greater encouragement for breeders and buyers to look beyond the more obviously precocious type.

“The Windsor Castle is a very popular race for owners seeking to have a runner at the Royal Meeting; changing the requirements for runners in this fashion from 2026 should create further incentive for breeders, buyers and owners to consider investing in middle-distance bloodlines.

“We are grateful for the careful consideration given to this matter by the Flat Pattern Committee, and to the valuable support of Ascot Racecourse.”

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