Epsom Derby 2020: What time is it, what TV channel is it on and who are runners?
What is it?
One the highlights of the flat season, the Derby is one of English racing's five Classics in addition to the Oaks, the 1,000 Guineas, the St Leger, and the 2,000 Guineas. The Derby is run over one mile, four furlongs and 10 yards on Epsom Downs, a particularly undulating course with a pronounced slope towards the rails on the home straight.
When is it?
The Derby takes place on Saturday, July 4 which is around one month later than its usual spot in the calendar. The schedule was redrawn following the sport's suspension due to the coronavirus crisis. The Derby is now always on a Saturday, having formerly been held on Wednesdays until 1995 when it was switched to boost attendances.
What time does the race start?
The stalls should open at 4.55pm on Saturday.
What TV channel is it on?
The race will be broadcast live on ITV1 as part of their full coverage from Epsom, presented by Ed Chamberlin.
Who can attend the racecourse?
The Derby will be held behind closed doors with no fans permitted to attend the racecourse. However, for the first time since the sport's resumption, two owners per horse will be allowed to attend the meeting in person. Trainers have been attending meeting's throughout, wearing face masks in the paddock and observing social distancing guidelines at all times. Jockeys wear face mask while racing, although social distancing rules are momentarily relaxed in order to get the horses in the stalls.
Who are the favourites?
English King 9/4
Impressive winner of the Lingfield Derby Trial. Last year's Derby winner Anthony Van Dyke won the same race before prevailing at Epsom. Two-time Derby winner Frankie Dettori will ride.
Kameko 7/2
Winner of the 2000 Guineas, and the only horse in the race with a Group One successes on his CV. Of course, the Derby will be a step up in trip having won the Guineas over one mile.
Russian Emperor 6/1
Winner of the Hampton Court Stakes over 1m 1f at Royal Ascot and Aidan O'Brien's leading contender. Going up in trip, but looks a versatile type who acts on any ground.
Mogul 7/1
Sired by Galileo, Mogul's sibling Japan finished third in the race last year. Finished a strong fourth to Kameko in the Veretm Futurity at Leopardstown. Disappointed at Ascot, but Aidan O'Brien said he was well short of his peak.
Vatican City 7/1
Finished an excellent second to Siskin in the Irish 2000 Guineas on his comeback run, and another sired by Galileo.
Highland Chief 12/1
Won a mile and a quarter handicap on his reappearance at Royal Ascot and finished third to Pinatubo in the Chesham last year. Climbing up through the handicaps is an unusual route for a Classics winner, though.
Pyledriver 14/1
One of the shock winners at Royal Ascot, claiming King Edward VII Stakes for training William Muir who believes he is approaching the finished product.
20/1 BAR.
