Epsom Oaks 2025: A Deep Dive into the Leading Contenders

Epsom Oaks 2025: A Deep Dive into the Leading Contenders

The Epsom Oaks, one of the most prestigious races in the British racing calendar, is set to deliver another thrilling contest this year. With a mix of proven Group 1 performers and promising up-and-comers, the field promises drama, stamina tests, and potential surprises. Here’s a detailed look at the key runners vying for Classic glory.

Desert Flower (7-4)

Trainer: Charlie Appleby | Rating: 117

The undoubted star of the field, Desert Flower arrives at Epsom with an unbeaten record and a commanding reputation. Last season, she swept all four of her starts, including the Betfred May Hill Stakes and the Fillies’ Mile, before returning this year with a gritty victory in the 1000 Guineas.

While her Newmarket Classic win didn’t require her to improve from her juvenile form, questions linger over the strength of that race—runner-up and third both disappointed in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. The biggest unknown is whether she’ll stay the extra four furlongs. Her pedigree leans toward milers, but her relaxed racing style and dam’s stamina influences (a half-sister to a smart stayer) offer hope. If she handles the trip, she’s the one to beat.

Elwateen (9-1)

Trainer: Saeed bin Suroor | Rating: 108

A late supplementary entry at a cost of £30,000, Elwateen announced herself with a bold fourth in the 1000 Guineas—just her second career start. She traveled powerfully before greenness cost her late, suggesting significant untapped potential.

Her pedigree screams stamina—she’s by Dubawi, sire of last year’s Oaks 1-2, and out of a Prix Saint-Alary winner. Bin Suroor, a dual Oaks-winning trainer, believes “the further she goes, the better she’ll be.” With natural progression likely, she’s a live outsider.

Giselle (5-1)

Trainer: Aidan O’Brien | Rating: 102

A daughter of Frankel, Giselle was raw last season but has begun fulfilling her promise this term, winning the Lingfield Oaks Trial with authority. Though she raced keenly in a hood, she powered clear impressively.

O’Brien cautioned she was “only just ready” for that run, hinting at further improvement. A stronger pace at Epsom should help her settle, and her pedigree suggests the trip will suit. If she matures mentally, she could emerge as Ballydoyle’s leading hope.

Whirl (5-1)

Trainer: Aidan O’Brien | Rating: 99

Initially considered an unlikely Oaks contender after her Musidora Stakes romp, Whirl’s connections have since confirmed her for Epsom. The step up to 1m2f unlocked clear improvement, and her dam (a Galileo sister to Hydrangea) hints at stamina.

O’Brien used the Musidora as a springboard to Oaks glory with Snowfall (2021), and Whirl—relaxed and authoritative at York—could follow suit.

Minnie Hauk (8-1)

Trainer: Aidan O’Brien | Rating: 100

A €1.85 million Frankel filly, Minnie Hauk landed the Cheshire Oaks in workmanlike fashion. While Chester form hasn’t historically translated to Epsom success, she’s bred to excel over middle distances. Still, she may play second fiddle to stablemates.

Revoir (12-1)

Trainer: Ralph Beckett | Rating: 97

Beckett, a master of Oaks upsets (Look Here at 33-1, Talent at 20-1), could have another dark horse in Revoir. Narrowly denied at Newbury, she’s bred for stamina and mirrors Look Here’s preparation. Lack of experience is a concern, but her potential is obvious.

Wemightakedlongway (20-1)

Trainer: Joseph O’Brien | Rating: 105

A Navan Group 3 winner, she impressed last time but may lack the stamina for 1m4f. Joseph O’Brien has hinted she’s better suited to 1m2f, making the Pretty Polly Stakes a likelier target.

Qilin Queen (25-1) & Go Go Boots (50-1)

Both face stiff tasks on ratings but bring stamina credentials. Qilin Queen is tough and progressive, while Go Go Boots—though outclassed at York—could improve for the trip.

Verdict

Desert Flower is the class act if she stays, but Elwateen and Giselle loom as dangerous rivals. For value, Revoir and Whirl are intriguing at their prices. With Aidan O’Brien fielding multiple threats and Appleby’s filly the benchmark, this Oaks promises fireworks.

Our Selection for The Oaks

One Stop Racing’s selection for The Oaks in 2025 will be available to All Members of One Stop Racing on the morning of the race along with all the other ITV races that day.

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