Royal Ascot 2025: Diego Velazquez can spring a surprise in the Queen Anne

Lead Artist will be ridden in the opener by Colin Keane, his first Royal Ascot ride for his powerful new retaining owner, Juddmonte.

ROYAL ASCOT 2025: Diego Velazquez can spring a surprise in the Queen Anne. Pic: Healy Racing

Tuesday: Queen Anne Stakes, 2.30pm

The build-up to the opening race of the Royal meeting can often feel interminable. By the time the king, queen (and whoever else in the family are still speaking to each other) have been ceremoniously ‘carriaged’ up the centre of the track and moved slowly through the top-hatted throng to their seats, some spectators may have forgotten they are attending an actual race meeting.