This week marks Glorious Goodwood — five days of top-tier flat racing known for both its elegance and unpredictability. Running from Monday 29th July to Saturday 2nd August, it’s the perfect way to close out the month and head into August. I’ve never been to Goodwood myself (yet!), but it’s definitely high on the list.

Tuesday: Goodwood Cup Day

The festival opened with John & Thady Gosden striking early as Westridge landed the Coral Chesterfield Cup at 6/1. In the feature, the Goodwood Cup, Aidan O’Brien took the win — but not with favourite Illinois (ridden by Ryan Moore), who was just edged out. Instead, it was Scandinavia, ridden by Wayne Lordan, who came through late to win by half a length in a tight finish. Sadly, the day was marred by the loss of Trueshan, who tragically died in the race being ridden by Hollie Doyle.

Wednesday: Sussex Stakes Shocker

Day two brought one of the biggest surprises in recent memory. In the Sussex Stakes, odds-on favourite Field Of Gold (1/3) finished fourth, while Qirat, the intended pacemaker at 150/1, pulled off a stunning upset to win by half a length — sending shockwaves through the crowd alike.

Looking Ahead: Key Races to Watch

Thursday – Ladies’ Day
The Magnolia Cup, a women-only charity race, kicks off the card. It’s always a fantastic celebration of women in racing and wider industry leadership. Later in the day, all eyes turn to the Group 1 Qatar Nassau Stakes (3:05pm). Whirl (11/8), ridden by Ryan Moore, is the standout — a proven performer over both 1m2f and 1m4f. She placed second in the Epsom Oaks and won the Pretty Polly Stakes, making her a compelling favourite.

Friday – King George Day
Before the big sprint, we’ve got the Coral Golden Mile (Group 2). Fifth Column (11/2) leads the market after three wins this season. If you like a long shot, Dutch Decoy at 66/1 has had strong recent form and could surprise. Later, at 3:05pm, the Group 2 King George Stakes runs over 5f. Asfoora is the current favourite (15/8), but Time For Sandals at 13/2 could easily challenge. But I believe it could be anyones race really.

Saturday – Stewards’ Cup Day
The final day features the ultra-competitive Stewards’ Cup (3:05pm), a 6f sprint with a huge 64-runner field as it stands right now. This is sprint racing at its most chaotic and compelling.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just starting to follow the flat season, Glorious Goodwood offers a brilliant mix of high-class action and wild-card moments. With much of it televised on ITV Racing, it’s easy to follow along.

Wherever you’re watching from, enjoy the week — and best of luck if you’re in the betting mood!