Benvenuto Cellini Wins Chester Vase, Now Favored for Derby

Benvenuto Cellini's odds for the Epsom Derby have dropped to 9/4 after his win at the Chester Vase on May 6, 2026. This is a significant change in his betting outlook.
By Newsroom | Horse Racing, UK |

Post-Race Implications and Future Prospects

Benvenuto Cellini secured a pivotal win at the Boodles Chester Vase, a Group 3 race at Chester on May 6, 2026. The three-year-old chestnut colt, carrying a penalty, demonstrated a "good performance" according to reports. This victory has positioned the horse as a serious contender for the Epsom Derby, with odds reportedly shortening to 9/4. Jockey Ryan Moore described the horse's ability to cover a mile and a half as a "fresh start," suggesting a significant step forward in his racing career. The win over a distance of 1m 4f 63y, amidst a field of three-year-olds, marks a critical juncture for the horse's racing trajectory.

Race Dynamics and Pedigree

During the Chester Vase, Benvenuto Cellini was managed from midfield, with stablemate Proposition setting a brisk pace from the outset. Ryan Moore reportedly held the colt back, allowing the race to unfold before making his move approaching the final turns. This tactical approach suggests a well-considered strategy by the training team, highlighting the horse's ability to respond under pressure. Benvenuto Cellini's lineage boasts a notable pedigree, and his form from the previous year is considered strong.

Read More: Kentucky Derby Winner Golden Tempo Skips Preakness Stakes

The horse's win in the Chester Vase, despite a penalty, underscores its current form and potential for longer, more prestigious races.

Past Performances and Breeding

Benvenuto Cellini, foaled on April 17, 2023, is a product of Frankel out of Newspaperofrecord (IRE), herself a daughter of Lope De Vega (IRE). This breeding line is steeped in racing success. Prior to the Chester Vase, his record includes victories in significant races:

  • Futurity Trophy Stakes (G1): Beating Hawk Mountain (speed figures indicate this was a preliminary measurement).

  • Champions Juvenile Stakes (G2): Featuring Hardy Warrior and Nil Bua Gan Dua.

  • Races at Doncaster (1m, Heavy) and Leopardstown (1m, Good to Yielding), both under trainer A P O'Brien.

  • A win at Killarney (1m 20y, Yielding to Soft) and a second-place finish behind Dorset (IRE) at the Curragh (7f, Good).

The ownership group includes John 'Susan' Magnier, Derrick Smith, Westerberg, among others. The horse's age and breeding suggest a strong foundation for future racing endeavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened in the Boodles Chester Vase on May 6, 2026?
Benvenuto Cellini won the Chester Vase, a major horse race. This win makes him a top choice for the upcoming Epsom Derby.
Q: How did Benvenuto Cellini perform in the Chester Vase?
Benvenuto Cellini won the race despite carrying extra weight. Jockey Ryan Moore said the horse ran well and showed it can race over longer distances.
Q: What does Benvenuto Cellini's win mean for the Epsom Derby?
The victory has made Benvenuto Cellini a favorite for the Epsom Derby, with his betting odds now at 9/4. This shows experts believe he has a strong chance to win.
Q: What is Benvenuto Cellini's racing background?
Benvenuto Cellini has a strong pedigree and has won other important races like the Futurity Trophy Stakes and Champions Juvenile Stakes. He is a three-year-old horse with a promising racing future.