Ombudsman unleashed a scintillating performance on Wednesday, storming to victory in the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot with a display of sheer class and authority. William Buick expertly guided the John & Thady Gosden-trained thoroughbred as it swept down the outside in the final furlong, establishing an unassailable four-length lead that left no room for doubt – Ombudsman was the clear winner.
The manner in which he overcame a formidable field, including Aidan O'Brien's Minnie Hauk and last season's Oaks winner, and Daryz, who had triumphed in the Arc, was nothing short of phenomenal. Initially, pacemakers set a blistering pace, but Ombudsman proved he possessed a turn of foot and acceleration that left his rivals in his wake – he effortlessly pulled clear to replicate his success from 12 months ago.
Trainer John Gosden described the performance as one of the greatest of Ombudsman's career, praising his ability to accelerate away from such a strong field. Looking ahead, Gosden indicated that the Juddmonte International Stakes at York in mid-August is the primary target for the horse – he may bypass the Eclipse Stakes at Sandown in early July. Given Ombudsman's affinity for the York course, the Juddmonte appears a logical choice for his next major outing.
Meanwhile, Aidan O'Brien celebrated his 99th winner at Royal Ascot as Victorious powered to an effortless success in the Queen Mary Stakes – a dominant display that marked O'Brien's second consecutive victory in the five-furlong race. This achievement follows True Love's win last year, who went on to claim this season's 1,000 Guineas. Bookmakers have already significantly shortened Victorious's odds for next year's Newmarket Classic, highlighting her immense potential as a filly.
Despite Minnie Hauk's second-place finish, O'Brien expressed satisfaction with her performance, attributing her improved showing to a preference for the mile-and-a-half distance and an end-to-end gallop. Her connections are now considering races like the King George at Ascot before a potential return to the Arc. Daryz's trainer, Francis-Henri Graffard, noted that his horse struggled to relax without cover, suggesting he was not seen at his best.