Sir Michael Stoute’s Ballet Concerto in line to step up in grade for the Rose of Lancaster Stakes at Haydock racecourse

BALLET CONCERTO is in line for a step up in class after his victory in the 58th John Smith's Cup at York last Saturday.

Sir Michael Stoute's four-year-old landed one of the most competitive handicaps in the calendar and the Betfred Rose of Lancaster Stakes at Haydock on August 12 is now a possible target.

"He looked good on Saturday and is a progressive horse. He's come back well and Sir Michael is very happy with him," said Bruce Raymond, racing manager to owner Saeed Suhail.

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"I think a mile and a quarter is his best trip as it makes him travel that bit easier.

"I'm not sure what he'll go for. There aren't many suitable handicaps like the one at York, so do you go up into a Group 3?

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"The horse has come back in good shape. I think the Rose of Lancaster could be an option, but we'll leave that in the expert hands of Sir Michael Stoute."

Stablemate Poet's Word could head to Glorious Goodwood after being a late withdrawal from the Princess of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket.

Raymond said: "He got a bit of a temperature, so he couldn't run.

"I think he might be aimed at a race at Goodwood, the Group 3 Glorious Stakes over a mile and a half."