The stage is set for an electrifying showdown at Royal Ascot's Group One Prince of Wales's Stakes – and bookmakers are already making Ombudsman a hot favourite to defend his crown. Last year's winner remains the one to beat, but French raider Daryz is breathing down his neck with a string of Group One victories to his name.
Ombudsman's impressive credentials continue to stack up: after claiming this very title 12 months ago by two lengths, he added more top-level honours to his collection and started the new season in style with a victory in the Dubai Turf. A solid win at Sandown's Brigadier Gerard last month has kept him firmly on course.
Daryz, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, is no stranger to success either – he's notched up two Group One wins this season alone, taking out the Prix Ganay and Prix Aga Khan IV at Longchamp. He's a seriously potent force with seven wins from nine starts under his belt.
Ascot's expected good-to-firm conditions could play to Ombudsman's strengths, but might just catch Daryz off guard – it remains to be seen whether the French challenger can adapt quickly enough to mount a serious challenge. Still, his blistering form suggests he won't go quietly.
The supporting card gets underway with the Group Two Queen Mary Stakes, and some exciting fillies are set to do battle in what promises to be a thrilling contest. But it's Ombudsman and Daryz who will have all eyes on them as they clash for the Prince of Wales's crown.