Epsom Oaks 2026 Preview: Amelia Earhart and Legacy Link Head Classic Field

EPSON OAKS PREVIEW: AMELIA EARHART HEADS STRONG FIELD OF NINE

The Betfred Oaks takes centre stage at Epsom on Friday afternoon, with a fascinating field of nine three-year-old fillies set to tackle the unique demands of the Classic over a mile and a half.

Current state of the going (14:51 3/6/2026) ground described as good to soft following light rain, this year’s renewal looks a strong contest featuring representatives from some of the most powerful stables in Britain and Ireland.

Aidan O’Brien, seeking yet another Oaks success, relies on three runners headed by the impressive Amelia Earhart. The daughter of Camelot enhanced her Classic credentials when winning on her seasonal reappearance and arrives at Epsom with Ryan Moore taking the ride. Her pedigree suggests the step up to 1m4f should suit and she is a worthy market leader.

The chief threat may come from the John and Thady Gosden-trained Legacy Link. Owned by Juddmonte and ridden by Colin Keane, she made a striking return to action when winning on her latest start. Her Racing Post Rating of 123 is the highest in the field and she possesses the profile of a filly still improving with experience.

Joseph O’Brien’s Thundering On adds further depth to the contest. By Frankel and out of the Group 1-winning Thundering Nights, she shaped well when winning last time out and looks certain to appreciate the extra distance.

Aidan O’Brien’s Cameo cannot be overlooked after a convincing success on her most recent outing. The daughter of Wootton Bassett has already demonstrated stamina and could prove a significant player if continuing her progression.

Ralph Beckett, who has enjoyed considerable success with middle-distance fillies, saddles three runners. A La Prochaine appears the pick of the trio after showing promise in two starts, while K Sarra and On Message will both need to find improvement to challenge the principals.

Venetian Lace represents Charlie Johnston and brings solid form to the table. OR of 110, she has been competing in strong company and could outrun her double-figure odds if handling the Epsom test.

The final runner is Sugar Island, another from the O’Brien battalion. Although she has something to find on recent form, her pedigree suggests improvement over this distance is possible.

Selection ✅
Legacy Link appeals as the filly with the most scope for improvement and can provide the Gosden team with another Oaks success, but Amelia Earhart sets a high standard and benefits from the booking of Ryan Moore.

Epsom Oaks 2026 shortlist (key contenders):
1. Legacy Link
2. Amelia Earhart
3. Thundering On
4. Cameo

With stamina, balance and temperament all vital around Epsom’s undulating track, this year’s Oaks promises to be a compelling Classic contest.