DONCASTER, UK — A historic chapter in Thoroughbred racing approaches at Doncaster's Town Moor as the 250th running of the Betfred St Leger Stakes takes centre stage. Following the latest confirmation stage, 12 horses remain in contention for the final Classic of the European Flat season, set over the gruelling 1-mile, 6-furlong, and 115-yard expanse.
Heading the ante-post market is Epsom Derby hero Christmas Day, who currently heads the odds at 7/4 as he attempts a feat not accomplished since Reference Point in 1987: completing the iconic Derby–St Leger double.
2026 ST LEGER: TOP MARKET CONTENDERS
- CHRISTMAS DAY (7/4) - Epsom Derby Winner (Aidan O'Brien)
- ENCELADUS (2/1) - Gordon Stakes & Royal Ascot Winner (Joseph O'Brien)
- PIERRE BONNARD (3/1) ─ Great Voltigeur Runner-Up (Aidan O'Brien)
- HIGHWAYMAN (12/1) - Vinnie Roe Stakes Winner (Joseph O'Brien)
KEY ANGLES & STORYLINES
The 39-Year Quest for the Double: Aidan O'Brien’s flagship colt Christmas Day won the Epsom Derby in June and returned from a mid-summer break to place third in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York. No horse has won both the Derby and the St Leger in the same calendar year since Reference Point 39 years ago.
The Rapidly-Rising Challenger: Leading the opposition is Joseph O'Brien’s Enceladus (2/1). Unbeaten in three starts this season, including impressive victories in the King George V Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Group 3 Gordon Stakes at Goodwood—the son of Sea The Stars steps up to 1m 6f with plenty of momentum.
