Kalpana wins King George VI & Queen Elizabeth stakes at Royal Ascot

Kalpana secured a win in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth stakes at Royal Ascot on July 26, 2026, defeating last year's champion Calandagan by one and a half lengths. Trainer Andrew Balding celebrated his 2,000th career victory, calling this win his 'number one'. Following a second-place finish last year, Kalpana's success was particularly meaningful, occurring six months after the death of Balding's father, legendary trainer Ian Balding. The victory not only marked a significant achievement for Balding but also positioned him closer in the trainer's title race against Aidan O’Brien. Kalpana is expected to compete in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in October.

• 1:13 PMYahoo Sports — Kalpana's King George win 'number one' for Balding
• 1:10 PMBBC Sport — Kalpana's King George win 'number one' for Balding