Goliath beats Dubai Honour to win Grosser Preis von Baden in Germany

Goliath produced a resurgent performance in the Grosser Preis von Baden, handing part-owner John Stewart an unforgettable wedding gift.

The five-year-old, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, returned to front-running tactics that had served him well in ParisLongchamp’s La Coupe earlier this summer. His strong display marked a long-awaited return to Group One glory, having last triumphed at that level in Ascot’s King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes in 2023.

With regular jockey Christophe Soumillon unavailable in France, Clement Lecoeuvre seized the opportunity to take the reins. His bold move to grab the stands-side rail on the home turn proved decisive, as Goliath surged clear of William Haggas’ Dubai Honour.

The victory was a proud homecoming for the German-bred son of Adlerflug, racing in the colours of co-owner Philip Baron Von Ullmann, who maintained his share when Stewart’s Resolute Racing became involved last year.

Stewart expressed his delight, saying: “We’re thrilled with this victory and even happier for our partner Philip to see Goliath win Germany’s most prestigious race. Now, we’ll sit down with Francis and consider the Breeders’ Cup or Japan Cup as possible next targets.

“Chelsey and I couldn’t attend as we were celebrating our wedding in Kentucky yesterday. This really is the perfect wedding present!”