Mostahdaf’s Participation in Qipco Champion Stakes Hangs in the Balance

The connections of Mostahdaf are keeping a close watch on the weather conditions at Ascot before making a final decision on whether to run in Saturday’s Qipco Champion Stakes. With victories in both the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Juddmonte International at York this season, John and Thady Gosden’s talented horse is being considered for a return to Berkshire on Champions Day.

However, there is concern due to an anticipated heavy rain later in the week, which could result in soft or even heavy ground. This poses an obvious challenge for Mostahdaf as he has shown his preference for racing on fast surfaces.

Racing manager Angus Gold from owner-breeders Shadwell expressed his thoughts about the situation saying, “The forecast isn’t favorable but we can’t do much about it except accept whatever comes our way. We’ll closely monitor it and discuss with Sheikha Hissa and John Gosden before reaching a decision.”

Gold further highlighted how challenging it can be when facing bad ground conditions at this time of year during such meetings. Referring to Mostahdaf’s struggle during last year’s Arc race held under similar circumstances, he stated that there is no point risking defeat unnecessarily just for participation sake. Nevertheless, running at Ascot and ending the season with another significant victory remains a strong desire for the connections.

Though there is an alternative option of participating in the Breeders’ Cup Turf on November 4, they are currently focusing solely on Saturday’s race at Ascot. Gold added, “Our primary goal has always been Ascot and if it doesn’t work out due to weather or other factors, we can consider the Breeders’ Cup. However, our main focus so far has been on Ascot.”