Ascot Day 2: Duke of Cambridge 2025

3.40 Duke of Cambridge 2025 Stakes

You have to say that, even with a 3lb penalty to carry for her Dahlia Stakes win, Cinderella’s Dream is going to be hard to beat here at the Duke of Cambridge 2025.

She panned Elmalka 4½ lengths there and even though the latter is dropping back to a mile, which will help, it’s hard to see how she turns that form around. In any case, that was Cinderella’s Dream merely backing up what she’d previously shown in two previous starts, and she looks every bit as good at 4 as she did last year. She probably needs no more than a repeat of that to come out on top, with nearest rival on ratings Fallen Angel looking to bounce back after a lesser effort in the Lockinge. She looked very much in need of the run beforehand and sweated up badly, so can possibly be forgiven, but you’d not want to see similar behaviour today. She’s going to be tried in a pair of cheekpieces after that below par Newbury effort, which might help her cause, but she just has a slight question mark over her at present.

Running Lion is of some interest now she drops back to a mile. Winner of this last year, beating Laurel a ready two lengths, she’s been running perfectly well over further, her second in the Prix de l’Opera at Longchamp on Arc day as good a piece of form as anything she’s shown, but I think she’s best around this sort of trip, rather than further. Her form is very hit-and-miss, but the addition of cheekpieces could be a catalyst for her to return to her best, which would give her a chance here. Definitely not an each-way bet, but a small saver on her at 8-1? I couldn’t put you off.

One Look keeps progressing with every start and her ½ length second to Porta Fortuna in the Lanwades Stakes rates a very good effort. She tries hard, which I always think is half the battle won with fillies, and might not have finished improving yet. She’s proving very consistent, which isn’t something you can say for many of these, but the one time she tackled good to firm ground she was a disappointment, so does have that question to answer.

Of those at double-figure prices, Soprano, who can’t have it quick enough, is probably the one that appeals the most. There’s no doubt she has to take another step forward form-wise, but she at least comes here fit and in form after her win at Kempton in the Listed Snowdrop Fillies Stakes. She’s a keen-going sort and could be vulnerable late, but on what promises to be rattling quick ground, she could be a real danger to all if allowed to bounce along on the front end with a soft lead.

Please note that the information provided in this article about Duke of Cambridge 2025 is for entertainment purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Any action you take upon the information on this article is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection with the use of our article. We do not encourage gambling and remind you to gamble responsibly.