In France, the Prix Kergolay has attracted a small but select field of European stayers. The race has strong connections with the Lexus Melbourne Cup, with three former winners of the Melbourne Cup coming through the Kergolay en route to Flemington; Americain (2010), Dunaden (2011) and Protectionist (2014).
Double Major heads the field as he bids for a third consecutive victory in the 3000-metre feature. His main dangers appear to be the William Haggas-trained Santorini Star and lightly-raced stayer Defiantly. The latter races in the colours of Australian Bloodstock and showcased his stamina by winning the marathon 4100-metre Goodwood Handicap. The jockey who partnered him, Dylan Browne McMonagle, will make the trip to northern France to reunite with the Joseph O’Brien-trained gelding.
Santorini Star brings strong Melbourne Cup form to the race after finishing narrowly behind 2025 Lexus Melbourne Cup runner-up Goodie Two Shoes in the Group 2 Lillie Langtry Stakes (2814m) at Goodwood last start. Regular rider Tom Marquand will accompany the mare and retain the ride, as he has done for her past seven starts.
We are three golden tickets down in the road to the 2026 Lexus Melbourne Cup, with Whisky On The Hill, Zakouma and Tawny Port, already booking their place in the race that stops a nation®. All eyes will be on York and for the first time, Deauville, to see who can join them.
