Epsom Oaks Day: Betting Tips, Live Updates and Latest News

Aidan O’Brien’s quest for a record 12th Epsom Oaks victory hinged on the performance of his star filly, Amelia Earhart, as the 2026 Derby festival unfolded on Friday, June 5. The Ballydoyle trainer’s campaign entered its climax with Amelia Earhart emerging as the leading contender in a field of nine runners, following the withdrawal of Precise earlier in the week. The absence of the former Oaks winner—who had been favored before sustaining a setback—elevated Amelia Earhart’s status as the primary threat to secure O’Brien’s historic milestone.

The Oaks, one of British flat racing’s most prestigious events, drew significant market attention ahead of the race. Amelia Earhart, trained by O’Brien at Ballydoyle, had been singled out in pre-race analysis as the standout prospect, with punters and tipsters alike highlighting her pedigree and recent form. Her connections—including jockey Sean Flanagan—had been preparing meticulously for the challenge, though the absence of Precise removed a key benchmark from the race.

Amelia Earhart’s path to the Oaks was marked by consistency. She had previously triumphed in the Cheshire Oaks earlier this season, demonstrating her ability to handle top-class company. Her form in the build-up to Epsom, coupled with her tactical advantage in the absence of Precise, positioned her as the most likely candidate to deliver O’Brien his landmark victory. The trainer’s reputation for nurturing champions over decades added further weight to the expectations surrounding her.

As the race approached, market movements reflected Amelia Earhart’s rising status. Betting odds tightened in her favor, underscoring the confidence placed in her by the public and industry experts alike. The absence of Precise, who had been a consistent threat in recent campaigns, removed a layer of uncertainty, allowing Amelia Earhart to command attention as the clear frontrunner.

For O’Brien, the Oaks represents a historic opportunity. With 11 victories already to his name, a success with Amelia Earhart would cement his legacy as one of the most successful trainers in British racing history. The stakes were high not only for the filly but also for O’Brien’s team, who have been fine-tuning her preparation for this moment.

Beyond Amelia Earhart, the field included a mix of experienced campaigners and younger prospects. While none posed an immediate threat to her dominance, the competitive nature of the race ensured that every runner would be tested. The absence of Precise, however, left Amelia Earhart as the undisputed focal point of the race.

The Oaks itself is part of the Derby festival, a weekend that also features the Epsom Derby and the Coronation Cup. The festival’s prestige adds to the significance of Amelia Earhart’s performance, with success in the Oaks setting her up as a potential contender for the Derby itself in subsequent races.

As the race drew nearer, all eyes were on Amelia Earhart. Her ability to capitalize on her current form and the tactical advantages provided by the field would determine whether she could deliver O’Brien the victory he seeks—and whether she would etch her name into the annals of British racing history.

For now, the anticipation remains high. The Oaks is not just a race; it is a test of pedigree, preparation, and performance. For Amelia Earhart and her connections, the challenge is clear: to rise to the occasion and secure a place in the record books.

Updates on the race’s outcome and Amelia Earhart’s performance will follow as the event unfolds. The focus remains on one question: Can Amelia Earhart fly home and deliver Aidan O’Brien his 12th Epsom Oaks success?