The race was run at the unusually early time of 2.25pm to avoid a clash with the opening game of the 1996 European Football Championship, which featured the England national football team, leading some commentators to claim that the race lacked its usual atmosphere and sense of occasion. Shaamit was the sixth choice in the betting, with Dushyantor being sent off the 9/2 favourite in a field of twenty runners.
The race took place at an unusually early time of 14:25 to avoid a conflict with the start of the 1996 European Football Championship. This scheduling decision caused some commentators to suggest that the event lacked its customary ambiance and significance. Shaamit was the sixth choice in the betting, whereas Dushyantor was favored at odds of 9/2.