Varian keeping options open with Eldar Eldarov.

Stradivarius will face nine rivals as he goes in search of a fourth Gold Cup at Royal Ascot on Thursday.

The marathon stayers come to the fore in the 2018 Prix Royal-Oak run at Longchamp on Sunday.

There are five Group 1 races at Royal Ascot over a mile or further. Nic Doggett scours the Racehorses annuals for the best performance in each race this decade.

Melbourne Cup entry Order Of St George is unlikely to be seen in Australia this spring despite a stunning 11 lengths win in the Irish St Leger at the Curragh on Sunday.