Calandagan has one mission for 2025—to win a group 1—and his search for a first top-level success will continue in the June 6 Coronation Cup (G1) at Epsom Downs Racecourse with connections optimistic he can get the job done on his first start in Europe this season.
The 4-year-old gelding, who was last seen finishing a close second in the Dubai Sheema Classic (G1T) at Meydan Racecourse in April, is one of seven runners declared for the £450,000 contest.
Trained by Francis Graffard and ridden by Mickael Barzalona, who Saturday will team up in the Epsom Derby (G1) with Midak, Calandagan will be making his fourth appearance in Britain after winning the King Edward VII Stakes (G2) at Royal Ascot last year before finishing second in the Juddmonte International Stakes (G1) and Champion Stakes (G1).
Nemone Routh, racing manager for the Aga Khan Studs, said: “We’re keen to win a group 1 with him this year, so we’re hoping he'll put up a bold show.
"We’re very happy with him and he took his race well in Dubai. He’s come out of that race in good form. We left him alone a little bit after he came back from the Middle East so he could get over all that traveling, but he’s done well in his last two pieces of work."
Calandagan is 4-6 favorite with the race sponsors, with Jan Brueghel second favorite for Aidan O’Brien, who will be seeking a record-extending 10th win in the race.
Giavellotto, You Got To Me, Ancient Wisdom, Bellum Justum, and Continuous complete the field.
