The Lincoln Handicap returns to Doncaster with 22 runners competing for the £77,310 top prize on the Town Moor. La Botte heads the market for Harry Eustace's team, while William Haggas seeks a sixth win in the race with Eternal Force. The William Hill-sponsored event marks the flat racing season's opening feature.

Expert analysts have identified several strong contenders. Declan Rix highlighted La Botte as a potential standout, noting the horse's last appearance in handicaps could be imminent. Urban Lion represents another value pick, with connections that previously won this race. Kate Tracey pointed to Tribal Chief at 14-1 odds, citing historical patterns where Balmoral Handicap runners finishing ninth to eleventh often perform well in the Lincoln.

Michael Bell's yard enters Greek Order as another interesting prospect, currently boasting a 71% strike rate. The horse makes its handicap debut wearing a visor for the first time. With the season's curtain-raiser attracting attention from across the racing community, the Lincoln Handicap promises competitive racing as trainers test their early-season prospects against a strong field.