Roaring Lion© Photo Healy Racing
Roaring Lion is one of 14 remaining entries following the five-day confirmation stage for the Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.
John Gosden’s colt has enjoyed a stellar season, with victories in the Coral-Eclipse, Juddmonte International and Irish Champion Stakes adorning his CV.
He does, however, also hold an entry in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes over a mile on the same card, and with the ground heavy in places on Monday, Gosden will not make a final decision on his destination until declaration time on Thursday.
David Redvers, racing manager for Roaring Lion’s owners, Qatar Racing, said ahead of what is the centrepiece of Qipco British Champions Day: “John Gosden and I are walking the course on Thursday morning and a decision will be made then.”
Gosden said: “He would be the very legitimate favourite for the Qipco Champion Stakes, but would not want it very soft or heavy.
“He’s got the class and speed to run over that mile (QEII)if that were the case and we’ll keep an eye on what’s around us (weather wise).”
One horse who will love the testing ground is Gosden’s defending champion Cracksman, while the Clarehaven handler has also left in Monarchs Glen and Maverick Wave.
Sir Michael Stoute’s Crystal Ocean will be dropping in trip, with Mirage Dancer also left in by the Freemason Lodge trainer.
Last year’s St Leger winner Capri is one of five contenders for Aidan O’Brien and Jim Bolger’s Verbal Dexterity is also in the mix for Ireland.
William Haggas’ Addeybb, and French challenger Subway Dancer, trained by Zdeno Koplik, complete the list.
