The victory positions Djelo as a leading King George VI Chase contender at Kempton on Boxing Day, with Paddy Power offering 8-1 on the horse for the feature race.

Williams spoke cautiously optimistic about a King George trial, noting the horse’s youth and potential while explaining the decision to test him over varying distances.

Trainer Venetia Williams expressed relief and pride, praising Djelo’s versatility and potential longevity, and noting the race’s test was appropriate for his capabilities.

Djelo becomes the first horse since Racing Demon (2006-2007) to win back-to-back Peterborough Chases, marking a historic achievement in the race’s history.

Djelo, trained by Venetia Williams and ridden by Charlie Deutsch, won the Sky Bet Peterborough Chase at Huntingdon for the second consecutive year, setting up a potential King George VI Chase bid at Kempton on Boxing Day.

The win secures a possible King George VI Chase bid at Kempton on Boxing Day, with bookmakers rating Djelo at 8-1.

Edwardstone, trained by Alan King and runner-up, performed strongly and may move up in distance rather than returning to shorter trips, with plans for longer-term steps in mind.

Jockey Charlie Deutsch rode Djelo expertly to a tactically managed win, with Saint Sam’s pace influence shaping the race dynamics.

The training team admitted nerves before the race due to form variations, but the performance was described as every bit as good as last year and beneficial for Djelo’s long-term career.

Djelo led from the front to defend the Grade Two Peterborough Chase by four and three-quarters lengths over Edwardstone, as Saint Sam faltered and was pulled up.