The 2000m Group 3 Zetland Stakes provides a strong guide to the likely contenders for next year’s middle-distance three-year-old division.
It is a contest that has historically proved fruitful for horses that are well-fancied in the market, with first or second favourites winning the last five renewals. Aidan O'Brien is responsible for this year's likely market leader – Endorsement, a son of the late Wootton Bassett.
Second behind subsequent Group winner Benvenuto Cellini at Killarney on his racecourse debut, Endorsement achieved a comfortable maiden victory when winning by one-and-three quarter lengths at Tipperary over 1800m. The performance, which was probably better than the winning margin suggested, put the colt as one of O'Brien's top middle-distance candidates for next year and showed he was ready to make the transition into Group company.
Godolphin's Look To The Stars may not be in a position to aim for Classics in 2026 as an ineligible gelding, but the son of Galiway has shown plenty of potential for top-flight success. Second on his first two outings against noted rivals, he recorded a maiden victory on the all-weather at Kempton Park in early September and promptly followed up in a 1600m conditions contest at Newbury. Appearing to benefit for the additional stamina test, the Charlie Appleby-trained gelding has the credentials to go close.
The same trainer will also field the maiden Del Maro, who was narrowly denied over 1600m at Newmarket's Rowley Mile by the talented Maltese Cross. The son of Camelot has been learning on the job through his first three career starts, and the application of a first-time hood could incite further progression.
Andrew Balding is represented by Allegresse, who returns to turf after two pleasing wins on the all-weather at Kempton. He recorded an impressive nine-and-a-half length victory in August and whilst the winning margin was not as remarkable in September, he was always doing enough for a neck victory.
With nine of the last twelve winners scoring on their previous outing, the statistics probably lean towards the top two in the market dominating the contest ahead of an exciting 2026.
