Royal Ascot Day 1: King Charles III Stakes betting tips, predictions, form and latest odds

The opening day of Royal Ascot 2025 delivers one of the meeting's purest speed tests — the Group 1 King Charles III Stakes (formerly King’s Stand Stakes) over five furlongs on Ascot's straight course.

This year brings together elite sprinters from Europe, Australia, and beyond in a clash of raw pace, tactical speed, and acceleration that promises to crown one of the world’s fastest thoroughbreds.

GET MORE ROYAL ASCOT TIPS: St James' Palace Stakes | Queen Anne Stakes

What time is the King Charles III Stakes?

The 2025 King Charles III Stakes will take place on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, as part of Royal Ascot's opening day card. Post time is scheduled for 3:40 p.m. BST.

The race is run over five furlongs (1006 meters) on Ascot's straight course and is open to 3-year-olds and up, with fillies and mares receiving a 3lb allowance.

King Charles III Stakes betting tips, predictions, form and latest odds

Defending champion Asfoora returns from Australia to defend her crown this year. The 6-year-old mare was dominant over this track and trip last year, showcasing her adaptability to European racing conditions.

Though only third on seasonal reappearance in the G1 Robert Sangster Stakes, she traditionally improves second-up and looks primed to peak again here. Versatile under any ground conditions, she remains the one to beat.

Her most serious challenger is Believing, a 5-year-old mare by Mehmas, who made a significant breakthrough this spring by winning the G1 Al Quoz Sprint in Dubai. Equipped with a powerful late burst, she poses a major threat if the race develops into a test of finishing speed.

Regional, runner-up last year, returns as a reliable front-runner. Now seven years old, he retains both consistency and resilience, and Ascot’s straight five suits his forward-going style perfectly. Expect another bold showing from the front.

Mgheera enters off a strong win in the G2 Temple Stakes, confirming her steady progress through the sprinting ranks. Her tactical versatility allows her to sit handy and respond strongly when asked, making her a dangerous player if gaps open late.

Night Raider, a 4-year-old colt, continues his steady climb up the sprint ladder. Though yet to secure a major title, his ability to handle a fast pace make him a live contender for a place if taking another step forward at this level.

ASCOT OFFER: Bet £10 & get £40 in Racing bets + £5 Free Bet on any sport with Paddy Power!

Key Contenders & Latest Odds (via Paddy Power)

Odds correct at time of publish but subject to change

• Asfoora (4/1)
  Last year’s winner delivered a commanding performance here in 2024 and has shown a clear liking for Ascot’s straight five furlongs. Though narrowly beaten on her seasonal return, she historically improves second-up. Proven across varying ground conditions, her blend of tactical speed and professionalism makes her the standard-setter.

• Believing (9/2)
  Announced her arrival among global sprinting’s elite with victory in Dubai’s G1 Al Quoz Sprint. Blessed with a potent turn of foot, she excels when produced late. Ideally suited to a strong early gallop that sets up her closing burst. If the race unfolds that way, she can seriously challenge the favorite.

• Regional (6/1)
  Runner-up in last year’s renewal and remains as tough and genuine as ever. Tactically flexible but most effective when allowed to dictate from a prominent position. His proven compatibility with Ascot’s straight course and ability to absorb pressure makes him a rock-solid contender.

• Mgheera (9/1)
  Took a major step forward by capturing the G2 Temple Stakes last time out. Her ability to track the pace and unleash a strong sustained run could prove decisive if the leaders overdo it. A serious player against more established rivals.

• Night Raider (6/1)
  Gradually climbing the sprinting ranks with admirable consistency. Although this marks a significant class rise, his reliable performances suggest he's ready to test himself at the top level. Stamina for a stiff five furlongs appears assured.

TSN'S Selections

Bet £10 and get £60 in free bets when you sign up with Spreadex for Royal Ascot. CLICK HERE to claim

Royal Ascot Day 1: King Charles III Stakes race details

• Date: Tuesday, June 17 
• Post Time: 3:40 p.m. (BST)
• Distance: 5 furlongs (1006 meters), straight turf
• Eligibility: 3-year-olds and up (fillies and mares receive 3 lbs allowance)
• Grade: Group 1

King Charles III Stakes historical winners (2005–2024)

King Charles III Stakes 20-year trends

• Top Trainers:
  Edward Lynam (2 wins), Charlie Appleby (2), Robert Cowell (2)

• Top Jockeys:
  Jim Crowley (2 wins)

• Stall Trends:

Stalls 1–4: 3 wins (Stalls 1: 1, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 0)

Stalls 5–8: 6 wins（Stalls 5: 1, 6: 0, 7: 2, 8: 3）

Stalls 9–12: 3 wins（Stalls 9: 0, 10: 3, 11: 0, 12: 0）

Stalls 13–: 8 wins（Stalls 14: 3, 15: 1, 17: 2, 18: 1, 19: 1）

King Charles III Stakes 2025: Key considerations

• A strong year for fillies and mares: Asfoora, Believing, and Mgheera headline a powerful female contingent.

• Key profile: Versatile speed, tactical adaptability, and proven straight-course experience.

• Pace scenario: Early pace likely strong; stamina and finishing kick may decide the outcome.