Moët & Chandon International Handicap prediction: Tips and odds – Ascot 2026

The Moët & Chandon International Handicap is one of the biggest betting races of the King George Weekend schedule, with a large field set to battle over seven furlongs at Ascot on Saturday. Extremely Zain heads a competitive market after winning his first three starts, but the 24-runner field creates plenty of opportunities for value. Our Moët & Chandon International Handicap prediction is for the favourite to go close, with Aalto our preferred each-way selection.

Moët & Chandon International Handicap – Stats & Bets

Winner market

The Moët & Chandon International Handicap odds are headed by Extremely Zain at around 5/2, with Mezcala next at 11/2. Back In Black is priced at 8/1, while Completely Random and Akkadian Thunder are both available at 10/1.

Extremely Zain is the obvious horse to beat after winning each of his first three starts. The progressive three-year-old produced a strong performance at York last time out, beating Andesite by two lengths, although he now has to compete from an 8lb higher mark.

That rise makes this a considerably tougher assignment, particularly in a 24-runner handicap, but his unbeaten record means he remains the logical favourite.

Mezcala is another major contender after winning the Buckingham Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, while Completely Random arrives after finishing second in the Wokingham. Both have strong recent form and should be respected in the betting.

Back In Black and Akkadian Thunder also feature prominently in the market, but the large field means the draw, pace and position in the race could be just as important as the ability of the individual runners.

Each-way and value bets

When looking at Moët & Chandon International Handicap bets, an each-way approach makes particular sense given the size of the field.

Aalto appeals as an interesting value option at around 14/1. He arrives after winning the Bunbury Cup at Newmarket, beating Back In Black, and his running style could be well suited to this seven-furlong test.