Lazzat denies Japan its first Royal Ascot victory

In June 2025, the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot became the stage for a thrilling confrontation between French sprinter Lazzat and Japanese contender Satono Reve. Lazzat, a pasture-bred horse, was trained by Reynier and had previously achieved a Group One victory in the Maurice de Gheest at Deauville. Partnered with jockey James Doyle, Lazzat faced significant pressure from Satono Reve, who was the 2-1 favorite to secure a historic first win for Japan at Royal Ascot, as the country had never won at this prestigious event before. Both horses exhibited exceptional racing tactics, with Satono Reve appearing strong and formidable throughout the race. However, with only a few meters to go, Lazzat showed remarkable tenacity and stamina. His determination allowed him to fend off the challenges from the Japanese horse, resulting in a thrilling finish that captivated the audience. Lazzat's victory was particularly poignant for France as he provided the nation with its much-needed success at the Royal meeting, where stakes were high, and the competition was incredibly fierce. Post-race, Reynier expressed mixed emotions recalling his worries about Lazzat's stamina after his international travel earlier in the season. Despite his previous travels to Australia and Hong Kong, Lazzat proved he could still compete at the top levels by delivering an outstanding performance under difficult conditions. The owner, the Emir of Qatar's Wathnan Racing, celebrated the victory as it marked their first success at this year's Royal Ascot event, contributing to a final tally of five wins throughout the week. Looking ahead, Reynier indicated that while the July Cup at Newmarket might come too soon for Lazzat, there were potential future races on the horizon, including defending his title in the Maurice de Gheest and other significant sprinting events. The acclaim for Lazzat was also complemented by his post-race antics, showcasing his lively character and leaving a memorable impression on the connections and fans. This victory for Lazzat not only marked a significant achievement for the horse and trainer but also highlighted the fierce competition present in international horse racing.