Too Darn Hot Darley Stakes (Group 3)

Held up; Meydan improvement (mostly on on fast ground) was backed up when third in 1m1f Group 3 here in April but, after 116 days off, it's his fourth of seven in Haydock Group 3 (1m2f, good) nine weeks ago on latest start which makes him a leading contender on form.

Won the Cambridgeshire Handicap over C&D (soft) last September and second in this race next time; also scored in a Listed race at Goodwood (1m2f, good) this May and creditable third in Listed race at Ayr last month; big shout on form but, judged on his four attempts on it, ground firmer than good would be a substantial worry.

Minor honours in Group 3 and Listed race at Royal Ascot 2023 and 2024, both on good to firm; however, he was not so hot at that meeting this year, wearing first-time cheekpieces after a year's absence; very lightly raced for his age and he has a chance if back on song.

Third in the Sandown Classic Trial in April and second in Group 2 Dante at York (good to firm) in May; ran poorly in the Derby but bounced right back when readily landing a 1m2f Listed race at Deauville in August; needs another step forward to take this and the drop back in trip might not be ideal, but he surely retains potential.

Won a maiden and two handicaps from his five starts, the latest win at Glorious Goodwood (1m1f); good fourth of eight when upped to Group 3 at York (1m1f, good to firm) seven weeks ago; needs to maintain his progressive profile but that is possible.