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Britain's premier all-aged middle-distance contest is reaching unprecedented heights as Ascot announces record-breaking prize money for the Gr.1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, pushing the purse to US$1.55 million for 2025.
The historic venue is implementing strategic changes to enhance the race's competitive edge, including a groundbreaking 'run for free' initiative. This summer showpiece, which saw Goliath triumph over subsequent Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe victor Bluestocking and dual Breeders' Cup Turf champion Rebel's Romance in 2024, is entering a new era following Qipco's decade-long sponsorship conclusion.
Significant modifications extend to Royal Ascot's Group Two contests. The Ribblesdale Stakes, King Edward VII Stakes, Duke of Cambridge Stakes and Hardwicke Stakes are transitioning to six-day entry systems, abandoning the traditional April declarations.
National Trainers Federation chief executive Paul Johnson welcomes these developments: "Trainers will certainly appreciate the extra flexibility that converting these group 2s to becoming normal closers offers. This will allow for more informed decision-making in the build-up to these races and will hopefully see Ascot rewarded with competitive contests."
The venue's total prize money for 2025 reaches US$22.5 million, with executive contribution rising to US$12.8 million from US$11.9 million in 2024.
Felicity Barnard, Ascot's new chief executive, emphasises the significance: "We are delighted to be continuing our upward trajectory in prize-money for 2025 and, through changes to entry conditions for the group 2 races at Royal Ascot and 'run for free' for the King George, we will be absorbing more costs usually paid by owners."
She adds: "The King George is our midsummer highlight and Britain's top all-aged mile-and-a-half race. It is vital that its prize-money reflects that, and this year's renewal will be the most valuable race ever run at Ascot."