Fallon insists Ballydoyle link-up rumour is a non-runner
When asked about a possible move, the champion jockey insisted: “There’s no truth in the rumour.”
Reports yesterday suggested that relations between O’Brien and Kinane had become strained by their lack of recent big-race successes.
Fallon is clearly uncomfortable about any speculation linking him with O’Brien, and admitted: “I’m lucky to have any job. The way I was last year, I wouldn’t have lasted another season. I was angry with everything and it was dragging me down.”
However, he added: “I feel different now. I’m up at 5.30am most mornings and am keen to get to work. I feel now that, with luck, I could ride for another 10 years.”
If Fallon were to leave Sir Michael Stoute, it would break up a partnership that is as much personal as professional. And after the way the trainer assisted the Clare man during his battle with alcohol, it would be a huge wrench to leave him.
Jamie Spencer, an Irish Examiner National Junior Sports star, has also been tipped to be the next No 1 at Ballydoyle, but the Coolmore operation is likely to plump for a more experienced campaigner when Mick Kinane eventually does leave.
O’Brien and Kinane narrowly missed out in the Vodafone Oaks this season, when O’Brien’s Yesterday finished second behind Casual Look after encountering trouble in running.
In contrast however, Fallon gave Kris Kin an inspired ride to land the Vodafone Derby 24 hours later.
Fallon has been riding at the top of his form and is clear at the top of the table as he bids to land his sixth jockeys’ championship.
He has ridden regularly in the past for Ballydoyle, winning the Group One Grand Criterium-Lucien Barriere on Hold That Tiger in October.
It is understood that Kinane is battling a long-standing shoulder injury. But even at 44, he is still seen by many as having a huge role in the ongoing success of Ballydoyle.
At Tipperary last night, Kinane laughed off any suggestion of a rift between Ballydoyle and himself.
Kinane stated: “It was the first I heard of it.
“If there was any truth in that then my first call would be to Sir Michael Stoute. I’d like Kieren’s job!”
Aidan O’Brien could have as many as six runners in the Budweiser Derby on Sunday but it appears doubtful that he will be able to call on Fallon’s services.
Fallon is set to accept a one-day ban he picked up at Royal Ascot, which is due to take effect on Sunday.
As there are Group One races on Sunday, Fallon may not apply to the Jockey Club to have the ban deferred.
