2026 Golden Slipper Stakes favourite Incognito nearing return to the races

The absence of Incognito from the Magic Millions 2YO Classic did little to dent his standing in Golden Slipper markets, with the colt edging closer to a raceday return.
Michael Freedman elected to sidestep the Gold Coast feature with the $1 million purchase, instead opting for a controlled trial as the build-up continues toward late January.
That trial came over 850 metres at Randwick last Thursday, following an earlier hit-out earlier in the month, and the trainer remains confident in his colt’s trajectory.
“At this stage the plan is to head to the Canonbury Stakes on the 31st of January,” Freedman said.
“With two-year-olds you never lock anything in too far ahead, but he’s a very straightforward colt and he’s doing everything right.”
Incognito made his debut in October when winning the Group 3 Breeders’ Plate at Randwick, stamping himself as an early Slipper contender.
He finished third in last week’s trial behind Enriched, with Manaal between them, and Freedman was pleased with the way he handled the contest.
“He travelled well, came off heels nicely and quickened when asked,” Freedman said.
“We didn’t want him bottomed out and Tommy was very happy with how he felt underneath him.”
Incognito now shares Golden Slipper favouritism at $8 with Warwoven, who was scratched from the Magic Millions 2YO Classic.
Early interest has already been strong across leading betting platforms as the autumn picture begins to take shape.
The post Incognito nearing return to the races first appeared on Just Horse Racing.
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