White Birch was a notable absentee as a field of 10 was declared for the Prince of Wales’s Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot June 19. Last month’s Tattersalls Gold Cup (G1) winner had been the general 5-2 second favorite for the day two showpiece but was not confirmed for the group 1 June 17.
His absence leaves Auguste Rodin clear at the head of the betting from Inspiral , who has emerged as a surprise contender for the 1 1/4-mile contest having been switched from the June 18 Queen Anne Stakes (G1).
Auguste Rodin finished three lengths behind White Birch in the Tattersalls Gold Cup last time, having finished a disappointing last in the Dubai Sheema Classic (G1T) on his previous start. However, last year’s dual Derby winner has shown himself capable of producing some sparkling performances, as he also gained top-level victories last season in the Irish Champion (G1) and Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1T).
Inspiral had been ante-post favorite for the Queen Anne, a mile contest in which she was second last year, but connections opted for the longer distance at which she was impressive when winning the Filly & Mare Turf (G1T) at Santa Anita Park last November.
Blue Rose Cen and Horizon Dore lead the French challenge alongside Zarakem and Snobbish, while the lineup is completed by Alflaila , Lord North , Royal Rhyme , and Hans Andersen .
