With a star-studded field assembled at Ascot on Saturday, the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth (G1) promised to be the race of the season so far – and likely one of the finest editions in the race’s richly embroidered history. A titanic tussle down the straight only enhanced the idea.

Closing day at Royal Ascot produced a bevy of surprising results, but none more stunning than the triumph of 73-1 longshot Khaadem in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee (G1).

The clash of generations in Saturday’s King George VI & Queen Elizabeth (G1) turned out to be a mismatch, as 18-1 longshot Pyledriver led home a clean sweep for the older brigade at Ascot.

Saturday’s King George VI & Queen Elizabeth (G1) at Ascot, a “Win and You’re In” for the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1), pits sophomore stars against older celebrities.

Last year’s Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) (G1) hero Shahryar captured his debut on the international stage in Saturday’s $6 million Dubai Sheema Classic (G1) at Meydan.

Three Group 1 races and a Group 2, with prizemoney ranging from $1 million to $6 million, highlight a strong turf card on Dubai World Cup Day.

The rich Saudi Cup program includes three turf stakes, all upgraded to international Group 3 status for Saturday. The 1351 Turf Sprint caters to the speed brigade, the Neom Turf Cup suits the middle-distance types, and the Red Sea Turf H. is a prize for stayers.

Glory Vase kicked off Sunday's Hong Kong International Races by hoisting the $2.5 million Hong Kong Vase (G1) for the second time.

The past two winners of the $2.5 million Hong Kong Vase (G1), defending champ Mogul and 2019 titleholder Glory Vase, will square off in Sunday’s renewal at Sha Tin.