A small but select field lines up for this year’s Alleged Stakes, and although the absence of Los Angeles slightly reshapes the complexion, there remains a strong Ballydoyle presence, a rising star outside the usual powerhouses, and a handful of seasoned campaigners hoping to cause a stir. With the pace map showing a weak early gallop, tactical speed and positioning could prove vital — especially with several horses better known for their stamina.


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Strongest Contender: CRYSTAL BLACK

Gerard Keane’s 7yo is thriving, having gone 4-4 last season, climbing from top-end handicaps into Group company with flair. The standout performance was his 5-length demolition in the Ballyroan Stakes, where he travelled smoothly and kicked away from a solid field. He’s versatile regarding ground, tactically sharp, and loves the Curragh.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

> “Very progressive in 2024… often travels strongly, usually responds generously to pressure.”



With a steady early pace expected, his ability to sit handy and quicken decisively gives him a massive edge over slower-starting stayers like Tower of London. He could well be the fly in the Ballydoyle ointment.


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Main Dangers

Jan Brueghel – Trainer: Aidan O’Brien

Unbeaten in four starts as a 3yo, including the Gordon Stakes and St Leger, he boasts a top-class pedigree and a serious engine. There’s obvious Group 1 potential, but this 10f trip could be on the sharp side — especially off a slow pace. That said, Ryan Moore’s choice of him over Tower is a quiet vote of confidence.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

> “Very smart form… improved again when gamely asserting final 50 yards in the St Leger.”
“Open to further improvement.”



If he’s tuned up and sharp enough at this trip, he’s a big player — but no margin for error.

Tower of London – Trainer: Aidan O’Brien

A multiple Group winner at trips from 14f to 2m, including the Dubai Gold Cup, he’s been rock solid whenever asked to stretch out. However, he can be slow away and often does his best work late — which may not suit a dawdling early pace over 10f.

Pertinent Timeform Comment:

> “Often starts slowly… usually travels strongly off pace.”



A proven class act, but today’s test may not bring out his absolute best.


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Others Worth a Mention

Galen and Crypto Force have hinted at talent, but generally find life tough in Group company.

Sons and Lovers and Wahdan are interesting imports for Joseph O’Brien but look more like long-term projects than live threats in a race of this calibre.



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Trainer Trends to Watch

Aidan O’Brien has won 4 of the last 10 renewals, and with two strong contenders still in play, it’s likely Ballydoyle will have a say again.

Gerard Keane may not be as fashionable, but Crystal Black’s trajectory suggests he can upset the narrative if things fall right.



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Verdict

This race could turn tactical, and CRYSTAL BLACK is the one who ticks most boxes for conditions, profile, and current trajectory. He has the sharpness, the track form, and the turn of foot to capitalise if the O’Brien pair find the trip too tight.
Jan Brueghel is the unknown quantity with upside, while Tower of London demands respect but may be caught out by the setup.