Royale Pagaille Absence Stuns Racing Fans – King George VI Chase News

Ascot Racecourse Announces Absence of Royale Pagaille from King George VI Chase

Royal Ascot 2023 enthusiasts will be disappointed to learn that Royale Pagaille, the nine-year-old trained by Venetia Williams, will not compete in this year’s Ladbrokes King George VI Chase on Boxing Day due to a foot problem.

The horse, who finished second in last season’s prestigious race, had been considered a 10-1 contender after a career-best victory in the Betfair Chase at Haydock last month, where he defeated Bravemansgame by six-and-a-half lengths. However, Williams has confirmed that Royale Pagaille’s foot issue will prevent him from taking part in the King George VI Chase.

“Unfortunately Royale Pagaille is unable to run in the King George VI Chase due to a sore foot,” the trainer said. “The timing is probably more painful than the foot itself, and hopefully he will bid for a third win in the Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock in January.”

Adding to the disappointment, Williams is also unable to run L’Homme Presse, who was still in contention in last year’s King George VI Chase before unseating his rider at the final fence. The horse has not raced since but was pencilled in for a return to the racecourse next month.

Despite the absence of Royale Pagaille, the King George VI Chase is still expected to feature a strong field, with two previous winners – Bravemansgame and Frodon – set to represent the Paul Nicholls stable. The 6-4 favorite for the race is Allaho, trained by Willie Mullins, while the odds on Hewick have been trimmed to 14-1 after each-way support.

As the countdown to Royal Ascot 2023 continues, racing fans will eagerly await news of Royale Pagaille’s fitness and potential return to action in the upcoming Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock in January.

🔗 Source