The St James’s Palace Stakes at Ascot on Tuesday afternoon is shaping up as a key rematch between Bow Echo and Gstaad, the leading colts from the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket last month. Bow Echo, who decisively defeated Gstaad by a significant margin to pull clear of the field by eight lengths, remains the favorite based on that form. However, Talk Of New York is increasingly regarded as a strong contender capable of upsetting the established order.

Talk Of New York has been beaten only once in his career, finishing third at Meydan in February after expending too much energy early in the race. Since then, the colt’s form has improved markedly, aided by the use of a hood that has helped him settle better in his last two outings. His most recent performance at Sandown Park, less than three weeks ago, marked him out as a serious competitor who could complete his ascent at Ascot.

Bow Echo’s performance at Newmarket was noted for its commanding nature, but he was considered hard-fit for that event. Gstaad, meanwhile, appeared to benefit from that run and has since secured a strong win in the Irish equivalent race, suggesting the pair may be more evenly matched this time around.

Earlier on the card, the Queen Anne Stakes at 2:30 p.m. features Opera Ballo, the Godolphin stable’s second string, as the only front-runner. Though not originally intended as a pacemaker, Opera Ballo has made significant progress, following wins in three consecutive starts since being equipped with both a noseband and a hood. That equipment has helped calm his typically free-running style. If jockey Billy Loughnane accurately controls the pace, Opera Ballo could be difficult to pass.

The 3:05 p.m. Coventry Stakes sees Siouxperb, who won impressively on debut at Yarmouth by four lengths despite appearing in need of experience, poised to make a strong challenge. With runner-up O’Gorman having since won twice, the form appears credible, and Siouxperb, who led from the front last time, is expected to race prominently again.

The King Charles III Stakes at 3:40 p.m. highlights the strong record of Australian contenders in this speed-focused event. Overpass is favored to secure a sixth win for Australian-trained horses this century, although some favor Rayevka, the French filly who finished third in last year’s Commonwealth Cup. Rayevka recently won at Longchamp over a shorter trip, suggesting she could be well-suited to the conditions and potentially unexposed at this level.

The day concludes with the 5:00 p.m. Ascot Stakes, where Reaching High is considered one of the best chances for a victory for the royal silks. Last year, Reaching High narrowly missed out due to being blocked in the home straight. With a clearer run this time, he is expected to vie strongly against fellow Irish challenger Puturhandstogether.