Everything you need to know about Royal Ascot 2024

Royal Ascot is among the world’s most prestigious horse racing events, drawing global attention from royalty, celebrities, and racing enthusiasts. Held annually at the historic Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, this event is a perfect blend of top-tier racing, high fashion, and British tradition. 

This year’s event promises to be particularly exciting. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Royal Ascot 2024, from race schedules to viewing options and critical highlights.

Event Schedule

Royal Ascot 2024 is scheduled for over five exciting days, from Tuesday, June 18 to Saturday, June 22. Although there are no races on Sunday, each day from Tuesday to Saturday features a series of thrilling races, starting at 2:30 PM and concluding with the last race at 6:15 PM. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect each day:

Day 1: Tuesday, June 18 – Opening Day

Opening Day at Royal Ascot sets the tone for the week with a series of high-profile races and an atmosphere of grandeur. The day’s highlight is the Queen Anne Stakes, a Group 1 flat horse race open to four or older horses. This race is named in honour of the event’s founder, Queen Anne, and often features some of the best milers in the world. 

Day 2: Wednesday, June 19 – Prince of Wales’s Stakes Day

The second day of Royal Ascot is highlighted by the prestigious Prince of Wales’s Stakes, another Group 1 race that attracts top-class thoroughbreds from around the globe. This race is crucial for horses aged four years and older, competing over a distance of 1 mile and 2 furlongs. 

Day 3: Thursday, June 20 – Ladies’ Day

Thursday is Ladies’ Day, synonymous with fashion, elegance, and the highly anticipated Gold Cup. The Gold Cup is one of the most prestigious races of the week, testing the stamina of the best stayers over a distance of 2 miles and 4 furlongs. The day is also known for its elaborate and stylish outfits, with many attendees competing in the unofficial fashion stakes. 

Day 4: Friday, June 21 – Coronation Stakes Day

Friday features the Coronation Stakes, a Group 1 race for three-year-old fillies. This race is a significant event in the calendar, often featuring winners from the English and Irish 1,000 Guineas. The day is packed with other notable races, making it a highlight of the Royal Ascot week. 

Day 5: Saturday, June 22 – Final Day

The final day of Royal Ascot is always a grand affair, concluding with the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes. This Group 1 sprint race for horses aged four years and older is a fitting finale to the week. The day also includes other competitive races, making it an exciting end to the event.

Viewing Options

For those in the UK, every race of Royal Ascot 2024 will be broadcast live on ITV1. That means you can watch all the action for free on your TV. If you have Sky Sports Racing, you can also catch extensive coverage with expert commentary and detailed race analysis.

You can watch Royal Ascot 2024 in the US on NBC’s streaming service, Peacock. This service will show all the races live. Another option is FanDuelTV, which also provides live coverage and betting insights. Nick Luck, a well-known racing anchor, will be part of the broadcast team.

You can watch all the races for free on ITVX if you prefer streaming. The ITVX app works on most smart devices, so watch the races on your phone, tablet, or smart TV. Just download the app, and you’re ready to go.

The King’s Horses

This year, King Charles has entered five horses in various races throughout the Royal Ascot week. Here’s a closer look at each of His Majesty’s entries and their respective races:

Gilded Water

Gilded Water is set to have a busy week with entries in three significant races. This horse is expected to be one of the key contenders, and the dual entry on Thursday shows confidence in its performance.

Treasure

Treasure will be racing in two events, with a notable entry in the Ribblesdale Stakes, a race known for showcasing some of the best three-year-old fillies. The Golden Gates Handicap on Saturday will also be a crucial race for this promising horse.

Crown Estate

Crown Estate is entered in the Britannia Stakes, a competitive race often featuring a large field of top-class milers. This race will significantly test the horse’s speed and stamina.

Hard To Resist

Hard To Resist will compete in the Sandringham Stakes, a race for three-year-old fillies. This race is known for its fierce competition, and Hard To Resist will aim to stand out in a crowded field.

Desert Hero

Desert Hero has already proven its mettle by winning the King George V Stakes last year. This year, Desert Hero will compete in the Hardwicke Stakes, with current odds of 10-1 for victory, according to BettingSites. Trained by William Haggas, this horse remains a strong contender and a favourite among the King’s entries.

Last year, Desert Hero brought glory to King Charles by winning the King George V Stakes. The anticipation is high for this year’s performance, with many hoping for a repeat of last year’s success. 

Each of these horses represents a significant opportunity for the King to achieve success at Royal Ascot, making this year’s event particularly exciting for fans of the royal racing stable.

Conclusion

Join the celebration and be part of a tradition that has captivated audiences for centuries. Watch live broadcasts, stream the races, or even attend in person. Royal Ascot 2024 is an unforgettable experience, so prepare to witness history. Embrace Royal Ascot’s magic and see why it is like nowhere else.