Ascot Gold Cup 2027
ASCOT
RACE INFO
WHEN IS THE NEXT ASCOT GOLD CUP?
17th June 2027
STAYER'S TRIPLE CROWN
FLAT
Distance: 4,000m
Surface: Turf
PRIZE MONEY
Winner: £368,615
Prize Fund: £650,000
ENTRY
Qualification: Four-year-olds+
Weight: Colts 129lbs / Fillies 126lbs
ASCOT GOLD CUP BOOKMAKER
BETFRED
GET £50 IN FREE BETS WHEN YOU BET £10
ODDS & RUNNERS 2027
Check the odds with your Bookmaker before placing a bet, as fluctuations occur. Full Terms and Conditions for the promotional bet offers can be found on the respective websites – read them before you sign up. Important to Remember: Please be aware that when you place a bet on a horse in the ante-post market and your chosen horse is subsequently withdrawn from the race for any reason, your ante-post bet is considered lost. In such cases, the bookmaker will retain your stake.
| No | Horse | Odds | Age | Weight | Jockey | Trainer | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 2 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 3 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 4 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 5 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 6 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 7 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown | |
| 8 | Unknown | 0/0 | 4 | 9-03 | Unknown | Unknown |
Scandinavia ground out a dramatic Ascot Gold Cup victory on Thursday, June 18, collaring defending champion Trawlerman in the final strides of the grueling 2m4f test.
The 11/8 favourite travelled strongly for Ryan Moore but had to dig deep as Trawlerman, prominent throughout, tried to make all in front.
Scandinavia’s relentless stamina finally told inside the last 50 yards, edging past by a narrow margin, with Sweet William staying on for a distant third.
The success brought up Aidan O’Brien’s landmark 100th Royal Ascot winner, underlining the four-year-old Irish St Leger hero as the new star stayer in Europe.
RACE OVERVIEW
The Ascot Gold Cup, the centrepiece of Royal Ascot, is a race steeped in history and prestige, captivating racing fans and royalty alike since its inception in 1807.
Scheduled for June 17th, 2027, this Group 1 contest is the ultimate test for the world’s elite stayers, run over a punishing distance of more than two and a half miles at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.
What sets the Gold Cup apart is its blend of sporting challenge and regal tradition. The race is the first leg of Britain’s Stayers’ Triple Crown, followed by the Goodwood Cup and Doncaster Cup, and winning all three in a single season is a rare feat last achieved by Stradivarius in 2019.
The Gold Cup is also one of only three perpetual trophies at Royal Ascot, with winners keeping the historic cup permanently.
Royal Parade
Each year, the spectacle is heightened by the Royal Procession, a tradition dating back to 1825, with King Charles III and Queen Camilla leading the pageantry in 2026.
The race itself has produced legends, none greater than Yeats, who claimed a record four consecutive victories, and jockey Lester Piggott, who triumphed 11 times.
For owners, trainers, and jockeys, victory in the Gold Cup is the pinnacle of staying racing - a blend of stamina, strategy, and a touch of Ascot magic.
Within Royal Ascot
The Ascot Gold Cup is the centrepiece of Royal Ascot, and is traditionally run on the third day, Thursday, which is also known as Ladies’ Day.
This day is synonymous with high fashion and pageantry, but on the track, the Gold Cup stands out as the oldest and most prestigious race of the meeting.
The 2027 edition promises drama, with top contenders and shifting betting markets keeping fans guessing.
The Emperor’s Plate
Established in 1807, the Gold Cup is the oldest race at Royal Ascot. Over the centuries, it has seen its fair share of legends and eccentric moments—but one of its most curious tales unfolded in 1907, when the trophy itself vanished.
On June 18th, 1907, the original Emperor’s Plate, a trophy donated by Tsar Nicholas I of Russia in the mid-1800s, was stolen in a mysterious heist that remains unsolved to this day.
The timing was so remarkable that it coincided with the arrival of famed American humorist Mark Twain in London, prompting newspapers to run the cheeky headlines: “MARK TWAIN ARRIVES” and “ASCOT GOLD CUP STOLEN.”
Twain, ever the wit, insisted he had nothing to do with the caper, adding a touch of levity to the royal meeting’s greatest whodunit.
Despite the theft, the Gold Cup’s legacy endures, with a replacement trophy swiftly crafted and the race continuing to crown new legends.
ASCOT NEWS
Meet the Owens Puts Michael Owen’s Horse Racing Life Centre Stage
Calandagan Aiming for Back-to-Back King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes Wins At Ascot in 2026
Coral-Eclipse 2026: Can Anyone Stop the O’Brien Machine?
Notable Speech Heads the Market as Royal Ascot Curtain Rises on Five Days of Group 1 Racing
TRENDS & STATS
When digging deeper into the Ascot Gold Cup betting scene, it helps to know some key trends and stats from the past 20 years, if you want to whittle down the contenders.
- Age Sweet Spot: 17 of the last 20 winners were aged between four and six, with four-year-olds and five-year-olds especially successful.
- Favourites Dominate: Nine of the last twelve winners were either the favourite or second favourite, and being first in the betting market has produced the best level stakes profit (+10.23).
- Winning Form Last Time: Nine of the last twelve winners won their previous race; eleven finished in the top three on their last start.
- Seasonal Activity: Eleven of the last twelve winners had at least one run that season, and ten had already won that season.
- Proven Stamina: All recent winners had at least six previous flat runs and at least three flat wins before their Gold Cup success.
- Group Race Pedigree: Ten of the last twelve winners had won a Group race; seven had already won a Group 1.
- Course Experience: Nine of the last twelve winners had run at Ascot before, and eight had already won at the track.
- Irish-Bred Edge: Eight of the last twelve winners were bred in Ireland, underlining the strength of Irish stayers.
- Trainer Trends: Aidan O’Brien is the dominant trainer, with ten wins in the last 20 years, making his runners especially noteworthy.
- Male Bias: Male horses have overwhelmingly dominated, with 19 male winners versus just one female winner from 22 female runners over the last 20 years.
These trends highlight the importance of age, recent winning form, proven stamina, course experience, and strong connections when picking a likely Ascot Gold Cup winner.
TICKETS & PRICING
Planning to experience the excitement of the Ascot Gold Cup firsthand? You're going to need a ticket, so here's the lowdown on how much it will cost.
Whether you're seeking the electric atmosphere of the general admission areas, the comfort of reserved seating, or the exclusive experience of VIP packages, there's a range of options to suit your preferences and budget. These are the 2025 prices:
- Windsor Enclosure: £45 - Trackside viewing, access to food and drink outlets.
- Village Enclosure: £85 - Trackside viewing from the centre of the track, bars, food outlets, betting facilities.
- Queen Anne Enclosure: £110 - Parade ring viewing, access to main grandstand, bars, food outlets, betting facilities.
VIP and Hospitality Packages
- Wyndham Restaurant: £1320 - Champagne reception, four-course lunch, complimentary bar.
- The Veranda: £1470 - Champagne reception, four-course lunch, complimentary bar.
- Trackside Restaurant: £2100 - Champagne on arrival, five-course à la carte luncheon, complimentary bar.
- Panoramic: £2640 - Gastronomic delight with two Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE - chef-in-residence.
- The Vista: £3720 - Six-course menu curated by Tom Barnes
This section covers a range of ticket options and pricing for the Ascot Gold Cup, catering to various preferences, from general admission to exclusive VIP experiences.
The information reflects the diversity and scale of this iconic event, ensuring attendees can find a ticket option that suits their needs.
VISITOR TIPS
Attending the Ascot Gold Cup is an experience like no other. To ensure you have an unforgettable day at this iconic event, here are some essential tips for visitors:
- Arrive Early and Soak Up the Atmosphere
Gates open at 10:30am, but the Royal Procession begins at 2pm and the first race follows soon after. Arriving early gives you time to explore the racecourse, secure a good spot, and enjoy the build-up to one of the most prestigious days in British sport. Early arrival also helps you avoid the busiest queues for entry, food, and betting. - Dress for the Occasion - and the Weather
Royal Ascot is famous for its strict dress codes and high fashion, especially on Gold Cup day. Check your enclosure’s specific requirements and plan your outfit accordingly. Remember, British weather can be unpredictable, so pack a small umbrella or pashmina and consider comfortable shoes for walking and standing throughout the day. - Plan Your Transport in Advance. Ascot is easily accessible by train (a short walk from Ascot station) or car, with ample parking for hospitality guests. Trains can be busy on Gold Cup day, so book tickets ahead and allow extra time for your journey. If driving, plan your parking and consider traffic around the venue.
- Explore the Enclosures and Facilities.
Each enclosure offers a unique experience - from the exclusive Royal Enclosure to the lively Village Enclosure and relaxed picnic zones. Research what each area offers in terms of views, amenities, and atmosphere, and make the most of the facilities, whether you’re looking for fine dining, live music, or a quiet spot to watch the races. - Get Involved.
Visit the parade ring and place a bet. Part of the thrill is seeing the horses up close in the Parade Ring before the race. Study the racecard, watch the horses’ demeanour, and place a small bet for extra excitement. Betting is part of the tradition, but remember to bring some cash or use a betting app to avoid long ATM queues.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy Ascot Gold Cup Day to its fullest, making your visit both enjoyable and memorable.
HISTORY
The Ascot Gold Cup, inaugurated in 1807, is the oldest and most storied race at Royal Ascot, embodying over two centuries of sporting tradition and royal association.
The first running, witnessed by King George III and Queen Charlotte, awarded a prize of 100 guineas to Master Jackey, setting the tone for a race that would become synonymous with prestige and endurance.
Throughout its history, the Gold Cup has attracted not only the best stayers but also international dignitaries.
In 1844, Tsar Nicholas I of Russia attended and, in honour of the unnamed winner “The Emperor,” donated the Emperor’s Plate as a trophy - a name the race briefly adopted until the Crimean War saw its original title restored.
The race’s lore includes the unsolved theft of the trophy in 1907, an event that amused the public when it coincided with Mark Twain’s visit to London, prompting playful headlines.
The Gold Cup is the first leg of Britain’s Stayers’ Triple Crown, followed by the Goodwood and Doncaster Cups, and winning all three is a rare feat last achieved by Stradivarius in 2019.
Legends like Yeats, the only four-time winner, and jockey Lester Piggott, with 11 victories, have cemented the race’s iconic status.
Today, the Gold Cup remains the centrepiece of Royal Ascot’s third day, Ladies’ Day, drawing global attention and celebrating a rich tapestry of competition, royalty, and tradition.
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FAQs
Getting to Ascot Racecourse
Reaching Ascot Racecourse is straightforward, with several transport options available:
- By Train:
Ascot Station is the nearest station to the racecourse, just a 7–10 minute walk from the main entranc. Direct trains run frequently from London Waterloo, with journey times around 52–59 minutes, and additional services are usually scheduled on major race days like the Gold Cup. - By Car or Taxi:
Ascot Racecourse is well-connected by road, situated near the M3, M4, and M25 motorways. From London, the drive takes about an hour. There are over 8,000 parking spaces, but these must be pre-booked, especially for major events. Taxis and rideshare services have designated drop-off and pick-up points near the entrance, but pre-booking is advised due to high demand on race days. - By Coach or Bus:
National Express operates official coach services from cities across the UK, making group travel easy and sociable. Local bus routes also connect Ascot with Bracknell, Windsor, and surrounding towns. - By Air:
For international visitors, Heathrow Airport is less than 30 miles away, with good public transport links to Ascot. Private helicopters can also be chartered to land at the racecourse for those seeking a truly grand arrival.
Visitor Tips
- Arrive early to avoid traffic and enjoy the pre-race atmosphere.
- Pre-book parking or transport, as spaces and services fill up fast.
- Check for any temporary road closures or traffic management measures during Royal Ascot week.
By planning ahead and considering public transport or park & ride options, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable arrival at Ascot Racecourse for Gold Cup day.
