Calandagan earmarked for Coronation Cup challenge

Francis-Henri Graffard is eyeing further success on British soil, with a trip to Epsom for the Coronation Cup on the cards for Dubai Sheema Classic runner-up Calandagan.

The Frenchman claimed major prizes in Britain with both Calandagan and Goliath last season and is already plotting more raids this term, having been delighted with how the former performed in his return at Meydan on Dubai World Cup night.

“It was a lovely performance for a first run of the season over a mile and a half and I was very pleased,” said Graffard.

“He’s a good horse and I think he will come on for that good performance.

“You will see him in two months at Epsom for the Coronation Cup.”

Calandagan was a regular visitor to Britain last season, impressing at Royal Ascot when winning the King Edward VII Stakes, before giving City Of Troy most to think about at York when second in the Juddmonte International Stakes, a race recognised by Longines as the world’s best in 2024.

The son of Gleneagles would again have to settle for the silver medal when returning to Ascot for the season-ending Qipco Champion Stakes.

However, following his encouraging return in the Middle East – when running on behind Japanese winner Danon Decile – the four-year-old could compete over 12 furlongs in Britain for the first time since winning at the distance at last year’s Royal meeting.