HAATEM is positioned as a strong contender to successfully defend his title in the Wolferton Stakes at Ascot this week, according to expert analysis. The five-year-old, trained by Richard Hannon, secured the race in commanding fashion last year and has been targeted at this event throughout the season. His recent comeback run appeared to be a preparatory outing, easing him back into competition ahead of Friday’s 1 mile 2 furlongs Listed contest. The ground conditions expected at Ascot should suit him, enhancing his chances of repeating last year’s success.

Several other horses also figure as notable threats in the Wolferton field of 16 runners. Arabian Light, favored for his affinity to the distance, has recently shown promising form at Sandown in stronger company and could offer value at longer odds. Wimbledon Hawkeye, who has experience winning a US Grade 3 race last year, may improve after a somewhat rusty return, with trainer James Owen reportedly enjoying a good run of form. Nahraan, trained by the Gosdens, remains an intriguing entry given his rapid progression last season and accomplishments including a third-place finish to the Arc winner at Longchamp. His proven ability on quick ground adds further weight to his credentials. French outsider Map Of Stars, with prior Group 1 placings, is a major contender, possibly benefiting from the introduction of cheekpieces for the first time. Additionally, Persica, having narrowly missed out in Group company at Epsom, and last year’s runner-up Galen—returning after a four-month break for Joseph O’Brien—both hold place claims.

In the preceding Ascot Stakes, a heritage handicap covering 2 miles 4 furlongs, eight of the past 12 winners have aged between five and seven, with only two favorites claiming victory in that period. The race often produces unexpected outcomes, with only four victors coming from the top three in betting markets. Stamina is a critical factor, evidenced by the fact that 10 of the last dozen winners had at least five prior runs over staying distances, while nine had multiple wins at those trips. Horses with National Hunt backgrounds have dominated recently, contributing nine winners—all competing over jumps within the same season. Recent race activity is also significant, as 10 winners had run within 52 days prior to their Ascot Stakes victory and nine had raced at least twice in the year to date. Gordon Elliott’s Mordor matches several of these criteria, having competed over hurdles this winter.

Among the 20 runners for the Ascot Stakes, Reaching High is singled out for a strong performance. The King and Queen’s runner was a notable presence in last year’s race but encountered traffic issues that curtailed his progress. Now back after a year off but racing off the same handicap mark, Reaching High carries the hope of redemption with jockey Ryan Moore booked for the ride. Joseph O’Brien fields a substantial contingent, including Puturhandstogether, who captured one of Ireland’s major staying handicaps last season but recently found difficulty due to an unfavorable position at Chester. Westminster Moon has shown marked improvement this year, culminating in a dominant victory in a large Curragh field; the extended distance at Ascot could further enhance his form. Other contenders worth watching include Tim Toe, who, despite limited runs, exhibits significant potential, and Galileo Dame, whose fourth-place finish in the Chester Cup caught the eye despite a less advantageous draw. Joseph O’Brien’s Comfort Zone, third in this race last year, could also outperform expectations if conditions align favorably. Market attention is advised on Tom Marquand’s ride Bunting, who returns to the Flat, and Beylerbeyi, currently rated 9 pounds above his Cesarewitch-winning mark.

The Ascot Stakes and Wolferton Stakes both promise competitive fields with multiple worthy candidates, demanding close scrutiny from punters and observers alike ahead of the Royal Meeting fixtures.