Calandagan successfully defended his title in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud on Sunday, marking a strong return after missing the Coronation Cup earlier this season. The five-year-old colt, trained by Francis Graffard, delivered a commanding performance that has positioned him as the 7-4 favorite for the upcoming King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, scheduled for July 25.

Despite his victory, Graffard expressed some pre-race concerns about Calandagan’s condition, noting that the horse appeared unusually anxious and was sweating more than usual. “Today he was sweating a little bit too much – he was a little bit worried – so I was worried,” Graffard said. He advised jockey Mickaël Barzalona to focus on riding the horse for his own confidence rather than the result. “It doesn’t matter if he’s beaten – we just need to get his confidence back,” he added.

Graffard praised Calandagan’s remarkable acceleration and stamina, describing the horse as having a prolonged surge similar to that of a greyhound chasing a rabbit, underlining the colt’s strong competitive instinct. “He’s got that will to win, which is very important at the top level,” Graffard explained. He also noted that his stablemate, Goliath, the 2024 King George winner, will also be racing at Ascot later this month.

Owner Princess Zahra Aga Khan commented on Calandagan’s racing style and temperament, noting his tendency to take his time but then dominate once in front. “If there’s another horse in front of him, he’ll do anything he can,” she said, expressing satisfaction with his return to form.

Calandagan’s latest win marks his sixth victory at the highest level of competition, reinforcing his status as one of Europe’s premier middle-distance racehorses heading into one of the season’s most prestigious events.