Trainer Andrew Balding is set to run his unbeaten filly Forbidden Fire in the Group 1 Fillies’ Mile at Newmarket on Friday, where she will face the 1,000 Guineas favourite Musical Times. Forbidden Fire, who recently won the Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster against male competitors, comes into the race on the back of an impressive performance that has gained further recognition after the third-placed horse, Nabati, subsequently won the Mill Reef Stakes.

Balding described Forbidden Fire as "lightly-raced" and "beautifully bred," expressing optimism about her potential development. While acknowledging the challenge of the mile distance, Balding indicated his confidence in the filly’s ability to compete at this level: "I hope she can be competitive."

The Fillies’ Mile is a key Group 1 race for two-year-old fillies and often serves as a stepping stone to future breeding opportunities. A strong performance here would enhance Forbidden Fire’s value as a broodmare prospect, with Balding noting that success could secure a desirable stall for next season.

Forbidden Fire’s undefeated status and recent victories position her as a notable contender in the race, which will test her capability to handle a step up in distance against high-caliber opposition. The meeting at Newmarket on Friday should provide a definitive assessment of her potential as she progresses towards her three-year-old campaign.