Godolphin have been successful seven times in this Group 1 since 1996, and in GLADIATORUS they must have a great chance of making it eight.
Their ex-Italian recruit won all three of his outings in Dubai earlier this year, culminating in a three-and-a-quarter-length drubbing of Presvis in the Dubai Duty Free, which earned him the title of the world's top performer according to the World Thoroughbred Rankings. Both the runner-up and the third-placed horse, Alexandros, have franked the form since. Presvis went on to win the Queen Elizabeth II Cup before being beaten by a fast-diminishing head in the International Cup at Kranji, while the re-opposing Alexandros (10/1 Betfred) was narrowly beaten in the Lockinge.
Gladiatorus joined Godolphin shortly after the Dubai Duty Free and I know what some of you might be thinking. Granted, the boys in blue have made a sluggish start this season, but their older horses have largely performed with credit and the vibes coming from the stable suggest this one might be better than any of their previous seven winners. Certainly, his relentless galloping style is sure to have his opponents in trouble and I'm not too concerned by their decision to let Ahmed Ajtebi keep the ride as he was on board for two of the colt's wins in Dubai, including the Duty Free.
He really does look a complete no-brainer to me and as I think he'll go off around 7/4, the current 9/4 on offer with Victor Chandler should be snapped up.
Finding a creditable alternative isn't easy. Paco Boy (10/3 Sportingbet) is having another crack at 1m after appearing not to stay that trip in the Lockinge. There may have been excuses for him that day - soft ground, foot infection - but there's no doubting that the best of his form is over 7f and the straight mile at Ascot will take no prisoners, especially as Gladiatorus is sure to make this a true test. For the same reason, I'd be keen to oppose Main Aim (5/1 Skybet), who is stepping up to a mile for the first time here.
Aqlaam (11/1 Totesport) was only tenth of 11 in the Lockinge but is likely to strip a good deal fitter here, although he too has something to prove as regards stamina after winning the Jersey Stakes over 7f at this meeting 12 months ago. Cesare (14/1 bet365) has run some of his best races at Ascot, but has had plenty of chances at this level without delivering. Which makes me think the biggest danger to the selection is his stablemate, Alexandros. What price a Godolphin 1-2?
Recommended Bets:
Gladiatorus 4pts @ 9/4 Victor Chandler
Gladiatorus to beat Alexandros 1pt straight forecast