HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Almeraq Stuns Field in Royal Ascot Photo Finish Victory

BBC Sport •
×

Almeraq delivered a dramatic upset in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, winning by a nose in a photo finish as a 25-1 outsider. The Group One sprint over six furlongs saw the four-year-old colt surge on the far side in the final furlong to deny Australia's Joliestar and Japan's Satono Reve in a thrilling climax to Royal Ascot's final day.

The victory marked a remarkable comeback for connections after Almeraq suffered a worrying fall at York last September that left regular rider Jim Crowley requiring surgery for pelvic and leg fractures. Crowley watched from the stands as Tom Marquand guided the winner home, with Marquand immediately dedicating the triumph to his injured colleague who is fighting to save his career.

Trainer William Haggas secured his fourth winner of the meeting while Marquand collected his third. Ryan Moore's mount Satono Reve finished second for the second straight year, leaving the 15-8 favorite Joliestar to take third place. The result provided a memorable conclusion to the prestigious meeting.

Almeraq's triumph represents more than just a betting upset - it's a story of resilience and redemption that will resonate long after the Ascot crowds departed. The colt proved that setbacks can be overcome with patience and skill.