Frankel wins “Duel on the Downs” Sussex Stakes at Goodwood

Frankel stormed to an impressive victory in the QIPCO Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood this afternoon (Wednesday 27 July).

In what was billed as “the Duel on the Downs” three-year-old Frankel — trained by Sir Henry Cecil — took on the Richard Hannon-trained four-year-old Canford Cliffs, who won the race last year.

But the unbeaten favourite Frankel, under a cool ride from Tom Queally, never seemed in danger. He led from the start before pulling clear two furlongs from home to win by five lengths.

Canford Cliffs — a winner of five consecutive Group One races — ridden by Richard Hughes, had to settle for second. In third was Rio De Plata.

“Frankel’s a very, very good horse, probably the best I’ve ever seen,” said Sir Henry Cecil after the race.

Frankel has now won eight races from eight starts, including the QIPCO 2000 Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

For full Goodwood report see H&H 4 August issue.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now