More air miles may await Giavellotto after third-placed Doha run
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Mon 16 Feb 2026
It looks like it will either be Hong Kong or Royal Ascot next for Giavellotto following another meritorious run overseas at the weekend.
Marco Botti’s globetrotter finished a creditable third in the Amir Trophy in Qatar behind the Japanese runner Deep Monster, ridden by Tom Marquand.
Giavellotto was at the rear of the field and was the only runner to make up any worthwhile ground, being beaten a little over a length.
“We all thought he was a bit unlucky. He was following the Godolphin horse (El Cordobes) but he didn’t take him into the race so he had to go around that horse on the bend and in doing so probably lost four lengths,” said Botti.
“It’s not a long straight there so it’s hard to make up too much ground. He closed the gap but couldn’t catch the first two. I thought it was a good run but bit disappointing as it would have been a nice race to win.
“We’re not taking credit away from the first two but we thought he was the best horse in the race.
“It showed he’s as good as ever and we are privileged to have him. He never runs a bad race, he’s taken us around the world, been fourth in the Arc, won in Hong Kong and he just loves travelling. He’s seven but he seems to enjoy his trips abroad.”
Looking ahead to what the rest of the 2026 holds Botti said: “We’re just holding off confirming for Dubai. We have accepted the invitation but I think the Sheema Classic will be an extremely tough race.
“We will talk to the owners and see how he travels back. We could go back to Hong Kong for the race in May (Champions and Chater Cup). It’s not the strongest field but it would be quite hot in May.
“I’d like to see him at Royal Ascot in the Hardwicke Stakes but the decision will be made in the next few days. He couldn’t run in both.”
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