Six O’Brien hopefuls left in French Derby

AIDAN O’BRIEN, who indicated last Sunday at the Curragh that Ballydoyle might bypass Sunday’s French Derby at Chantilly, left in six possibilities at yesterday’s first acceptance.

They are The Great Gatsby, Brian Boru, France, Handel, Alberto Giacometti and Balestrini.

Speaking yesterday, O’Brien said that all six will remain in the classic until the declaration stage this morning. Commented O’Brien: “It remains possible we won’t have a runner, but if we do then the two most likely to travel are Alberto Giacometti and Balestrini.”