Frankel is poised to prove himself the best European horse since Timeform began its ratings in 1948.

The Sir Henry Cecil-trained colt goes into the G1 Lockinge Stakes on Saturday rated ten pounds and more ahead of his rivals.  “Frankel has so much ability that it’s hard to envisage a scenario in which something will beat him, and that goes for the whole season and not just the Lockinge,” Timeform CEO Jamie Lynch said.

“We’re looking for Frankel to improve his rating by three pounds to a mark of 146 this year.  That would make him the best Flat horse ever in Timeform’s experience.  This season will define Frankel’s legacy.”

TIMEFORM TOP 20

145 Sea Bird  1962
144 Brigadier Gerard  1968
144 Tudor Minstrel  1944
143 Frankel  2008
142 Abernant  1946

142 Ribot  1952
141 Mill Reef  1968
140 Dancing Brave  1983
140 Dubai Millennium  1996
140 Harbinger  2006

140 Sea The Stars  2006
140 Shergar  1978
140 Vaguely Noble  1965
139 Generous  1988
139 Reference Point  1984