Westover still favourite for King George glory

Irish Derby winner Westover continues to head Coral’s betting for Saturday’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes following the final declarations for the Ascot showpiece. 

Westover, Emily Upjohn and Mishriff have all stood their ground among six runners for a fascinating renewal of the midsummer highlight, which has produced some famous winners down the years.

The Ralph Beckett-trained Westover is the 6/4 favourite following his demolition job in the Irish Derby last month, but is unlikely to have things all his own way under Colin Keane, with John and Thady Gosden firing a formidable two-pronged assault.

Emily Upjohn was due to contest last weekend’s Irish Oaks following her narrow defeat in the Oaks at Epsom, but travel problems meant she missed out on a trip to the Curragh and she is 5/2 to win at Ascot instead.

Frankie Dettori’s mount joins her illustrious stablemate Mishriff (pictured below), who was second to Adayar in last year’s King George and proved he is as good as ever when touched off by Vadeni in the Eclipse three weeks ago.

James Doyle partners Mishriff for the first time, replacing owner Prince Faisal’s former retained rider David Egan.

German raider Torquator Tasso, a shock winner of last year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, adds international spice to the field.