The second day of the prestigious Glorious Goodwood meeting is headlined by The Sussex Stakes.
The Sussex Stakes is a Group 1 mile-long contest run under weight-for-age conditions at Goodwood. It is open to three-year-olds and up.
The race carries particular significance as the first opportunity for three-year-olds to test themselves against older milers at Group 1 level. They have enjoyed a striking level of success, too — winning 44 of the 64 renewals since 1960.
In 2021, three-year-olds swept the podium, underlining the age group’s dominance in recent decades.
The only horse to have won the Sussex Stakes twice is the legendary Frankel, who made his first foray outside of his own age group in 2011 with a devastating five-length victory, and returned 12 months later to produce another commanding performance.
The race is steeped in heritage, with names such as Sir Gordon Richards (eight wins) and Sir Henry Cecil (seven wins, including both of Frankel’s triumphs) further embellishing its rich history.
Who will be in the frame for the 2025 running? Let's find out with our expert tips and betting advice below.
Sussex Stakes 2025 expert racing tips, betting and latest odds
This year’s race once again brings an anticipated battle between Classic-generation talent and battle-hardened older milers.
The clear market leader is Field Of Gold (4/11 with Bet365 at time of writing) trained by John and Thady Gosden, who comes off a dominant victory in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot. With a potent blend of tactical speed and racing temperament, he shapes as the one to beat.
Henri Matisse, a French 2000 Guineas winner from the Aidan O’Brien yard, is garnering increasing support in the market. Although stepping back in trip from recent engagements, the colt is seen as a legitimate challenger and a potential flagship representative of the Coolmore team.
Rosallion, from the Richard Hannon yard, was a strong second favourite not long ago, but has seen his odds drift significantly in recent days.
Another live contender is Docklands, who defeated Rosallion in a gritty finish to the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot. His proven finishing kick could be a factor again if the pace sets up right.
Click odds to bet direct with our selected partners
Key Runners
- Field Of Gold
Winner of the St James’s Palace Stakes. Exceptionally professional for a three-year-old, showing high cruising speed and adaptability. Rightful favourite on current form.
- Henri Matisse
Irish-trained French 2000 Guineas winner. A high-class colt being tested at a sharper trip. Market momentum suggests connections are confident of a big run.
- Rosallion
Talented son of Blue Point who has traded inconsistently in the market. May still line up, but connections appear to be weighing up alternative options. Worth monitoring.
- Docklands
Broke through at Group 1 level in the Queen Anne, defeating Rosallion in the process. Strong stayer at a mile and proven on a straight track, though Goodwood’s turns may present a new challenge.
Click here for all the best racing prices and offers from Spreadex
Sussex Stakes 2025 Selections
◎ Field Of Gold
○ Henri Matisse
▲ Rosallion
△ Docklands
Field Of Gold appeals most as a complete miler with scope for further improvement.
Henri Matisse brings quality international form and should not be underestimated.
Rosallion is a class act, albeit with recent question marks regarding form and plans.
Docklands, if he handles the course, is a live outsider with proven grit at the finish.
Click odds to bet direct with our selected partners
When is the 2025 Sussex Stakes?
The 2025 Sussex Stakes is scheduled to be run on Wednesday, 30 July, the second day of Glorious Goodwood. Post time will be 3:05 p.m. local time, in line with tradition.
Sussex Stakes: Key race details
Distance: 1 mile
Eligibility: 3 years old and up, weight-for-age