Goliath set for selective late‑season campaign after Ascot effort
Owners and trainer are taking a cautious approach with Goliath after the six‑year‑old’s recent run at Ascot, with a return to Baden‑Baden under consideration as the next objective.
Goliath remains one of the standout performers in European middle‑distance races following a productive 2024 campaign that included victory in the King George at Ascot. He added a Group Two success in the Grand Prix de Chantilly at the end of May and was subsequently campaigned through the summer, culminating in the Ascot meeting.
Connections acknowledge that ground and timing have been factors this season. The horse did not find the conditions to his liking at Ascot and a more selective programme is now being discussed to get him back to peak form for the remainder of the year.
Management plan aims to pick suitable targets
Resolute Racing part‑owner John Stewart confirmed that trainer Francis‑Henri Graffard remains confident the veteran stays competitive at the top level if his engagements are chosen carefully. Given the profile of the horse and his past achievements, further high‑class targets have not been ruled out.
Goliath’s record includes two Group One successes, one of which came at Baden‑Baden last September in the Grosser Preis von Baden. That victory, together with his past King George success at Ascot, provides a clear blueprint for the level of races in which he is likely to be campaigned.
Baden‑Baden a logical option
With stamina and an affinity for cut in the ground cited as important to the six‑year‑old’s optimal performance, a defence of his Grosser Preis von Baden crown has emerged as a credible option. The German Group One is already on the radar of owners and is described by connections as a race that suits his profile.
Stewart indicated that the team has discussed retirement but that Graffard believes the horse can still produce top performances if his programme is managed carefully. The emphasis will be on selecting races that play to his strengths rather than maintaining a busy summer schedule.
Looking ahead
- Goliath’s next target has not been formally declared; Baden‑Baden is being considered among possible late‑season objectives.
- Connections plan to be more selective with entries, aiming to place Goliath where the ground and race conditions will allow him to accelerate and perform at his best.
- The decision will involve close consultation between owners and trainer to balance the horse’s welfare and competitive ambitions.
For followers of Ascot and major European fixtures, the prospect of Goliath returning to the Grosser Preis von Baden would offer an intriguing rematch against continental opposition and a chance for the horse to add another top‑level success to his record if the ground proves suitable.
Further announcements on his immediate plans are expected as connections finalise their autumn strategy.
