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SARGA.CO – A devastating burst of acceleration in the final 400 metres carried Ombudsman to another Prince of Wales's Stakes victory at Royal Ascot 2026. His four-length triumph not only confirmed his status as Europe's leading middle-distance horse but also made him the first runner in 31 years to successfully defend the prestigious title.

The achievement was made even more impressive by the quality of opposition. With a purse of £1 million, the Prince of Wales's Stakes stands among the most valuable and prestigious middle-distance races in Britain, attracting some of the continent's best horses each year.

Ombudsman faced a formidable field headed by Daryz, the reigning Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner who arrived on a three-race Group 1 winning streak. Also in contention was 2025 Oaks heroine Minnie Hauk, who had previously finished close behind Daryz in the Arc, while Irish Group 1 winner Almaqam added further depth to an already elite line-up.

When the gates opened, Devil's Advocate and Mississippi River immediately took up the running and ensured a strong pace from the outset. The principal contenders settled just behind the leaders, conserving energy for the decisive stages.

Approaching the final 400 metres, several runners were already being pushed along, yet Jockey William Buick remained patient aboard Ombudsman, waiting for the right moment to strike.

That moment came entering the home straight.

With a stunning turn of foot, Ombudsman surged past Daryz and Minnie Hauk in a matter of strides before quickly opening daylight on the rest of the field. The move proved decisive as none of his rivals could respond to the acceleration.

The victory secured Ombudsman's place in Royal Ascot history as only the fourth horse ever to win the Prince of Wales's Stakes in consecutive years. He became the first to achieve the feat since Muhtarram, who captured back-to-back editions in 1994 and 1995.

The connection runs even deeper, as Muhtarram was also trained by John Gosden. Thanks to Ombudsman's latest success, the veteran trainer now boasts seven Prince of Wales's Stakes victories during his distinguished career.

For Godolphin and William Buick, the result offered further evidence of a horse continuing to improve with maturity. Ombudsman has now won nine of his twelve career starts, establishing himself among the standout performers of his generation.

1. Ombudsman
2. Minnie Hauk
3. Daryz
4. Almaqam
5. Dancing Gemini
6. See The Fire
7. Devil's Advocate
8. Mississippi River