More Thunder can swoop in Queen Anne

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

More Thunder, trained by William Haggas, is a leading contender in Tuesday’s Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot after strong performances over increasing distances. Meanwhile, jockey Ryan Moore will ride Reaching High, owned by King Charles and Queen Camilla, in the Ascot Stakes as they aim for a first royal winner since 2023 despite the horse’s lack of recent racing.

More Thunder, a five-year-old trained by William Haggas, is poised to make a significant impact in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot on Tuesday. Since narrowly missing victory in the Wokingham Stakes last year, More Thunder has steadily improved, demonstrating promising form over increasing distances. The horse secured a smooth Group 2 win over seven furlongs and delivered a strong finish to claim second place in the Lockinge Stakes over a mile. Connections believe the step up in distance suits More Thunder’s running style, particularly on Ascot’s straight course.

More Thunder is considered one of the leading contenders in a competitive field, with the notable exception of Notable Speech, who finished behind More Thunder in last year’s Queen Anne and has yet to show the same affinity for the course’s straight configuration.

Meanwhile, attention also focuses on the Ascot Stakes, where jockey Ryan Moore aims to rectify misfortune from last year’s running. Moore, recently honoured with an MBE, will ride Reaching High for Willie Mullins in the race. The five-year-old, owned by King Charles and Queen Camilla, faced interference in the Ascot Stakes twelve months ago but still managed a commendable effort. Mullins commented that the horse remains in optimal condition despite not having raced this season, stating, “He ran well last year when his passage was impeded but that’s racing. He’s in as good a form as we can get him without a run.”

The royal ownership of Reaching High adds an extra dimension to the event as King Charles and Queen Camilla seek their first winner at Royal Ascot since 2023. Moore’s partnership with the horse offers a chance to deliver for the royal patrons after last year’s disappointment.

Royal Ascot’s Tuesday card thus features a blend of promising talent and storylines that highlight both athletic potential and historical significance. More Thunder’s progression signals strong prospects in the mile feature, while Reaching High represents both sporting and royal aspirations in the longer-distance Ascot Stakes.