Lazzat ruled out of Royal Ascot return

Wathnan Racing’s Royal Ascot squad has taken a blow after the news that leading sprinter Lazzat has been ruled out of the summer’s showpiece meeting through injury.

Jerome Reynier’s five-year-old saw off Japan’s Satono Reve in a thrilling finish to the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes 12 months ago, capping a fine week for the Emir of Qatar’s racing operation at the Royal meeting.

He was on course to defend his crown having built on his early 2026 appearances in the Middle East with a taking victory in the Prix du Palais-Royal back on home soil at ParisLongchamp last Thursday.

However, he has since been discovered to have suffered a setback, with Wathnan’s racing adviser Richard Brown saying: “We were thrilled with Lazzat’s prep race win at Longchamp, but unfortunately he’s returned sore.

“All being well, he’ll be back in action later in the season. It’s rough luck on trainer Jerome Reynier and his team, who have been so dedicated to getting the best out of Lazzat, but the prognosis is positive for the future.”

Reynier added: “Lazzat pulled out lame after the race. It’s a shame as he looks amazing and is in top form. The good news is, he’s got a great temperament which will be sure to help him get through his recuperation.”