Classy field for Ascot opener
The former, who is trained by Aidan O’Brien, was a dual Group One winner in his native Australia and opened his European campaign by finishing sixth in the Lockinge.
He is one of three runners for O’Brien, who also fields Mount Nelson and likely outsider Honoured Guest.
Sageburg beat stablemate Darjina in the Prix d’Ispahan last time and both take their chances again for French handler Alain de Royer-Dupre.
Spirito Del Vento adds further French interest while Peter Chapple-Hyam’s Tariq and the James Fanshawe-trained Cesare head the home defence.
Last year’s dual 1000 Guineas heroine Finsceal Beo represents Jim Bolger with Arabian Gleam and Linngari rounding out the 11-strong line-up.
Big-race rider Jimmy Fortune is keen on the chance of Tariq in the mile feature.
The four-year-old was a winner at the Royal meeting last year, claiming the seven-furlong Jersey Stakes before going on to lift the Betfair Cup at Goodwood.
Tariq showed he is just as capable at a mile when a fast-finishing third in the Lockinge after meeting trouble in running.
Fortune said: “Everyone saw how he ran in the Lockinge when he ran a very good race. It was his first run of the year and he was a bit fresh and free and he’s got a big chance.
“Peter is quite happy with him at the moment and said he worked very well the other morning.
“I haven’t sat on him since the Lockinge, but he likes the track at Ascot as he won the Jersey Stakes last year.
“I’m sure that he gets a mile, good ground would be perfect for him but any rain would suit him.”
Paddy Power make Tariq an 11-2 chance along with Cesare while their 9-2 joint-favourites are Haradasun and Sageburg.
