Dettori joy as he gets go-ahead to ride Authorized in Epsom Derby
The Italian, seeking an elusive first success in the world’s premier Classic, has been released by Sheikh Mohammed from his Godolphin duties to continue his association with Peter Chapple-Hyam’s colt at Epsom on June 2.
“It’s very kind of his Highness (Sheikh Mohammed) to let me off,” said Dettori. “Of course I’m very pleased, but it’s going to be a long two weeks.”
Godolphin, however, still have three of the 22 horses – Eastern Anthem, Jalil and Mythical Kid – left in the Derby at the second forfeit stage.
“At the moment we don’t have a strong contender and after talking to Sheikh Mohammed last night he was very aware of that situation and he thought it was the sporting and right thing to do to let him (Dettori) ride the favourite,” said Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford.
“Hopefully we will have a runner but I can’t say for sure just yet. We’ll have to see what the next 10 days bring and see where we are.
“We always operate with a degree of flexibility, hence Kerrin McEvoy riding a lot for Sir Michael Stoute this week.
“At the moment we are not that busy but when we do get busy we will need full support from our team of jockeys.”
Aidan O’Brien is responsible for nine of the remaining entries as he bids for a third Derby triumph after Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002).
The Ballydoyle maestro’s possibles are headed by Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial winner Archipenko, Chester Vase victor Soldier Of Fortune and Admiralofthefleet, successful in the Dee Stakes.
His party is completed by Acapulco, Anton Chekhov, Chinese Whisper, Eagle Mountain, Mahler and Yellowstone.
Others standing their ground include Lingfield Derby Trial scorer Aqaleem, David Elsworth’s Salford Mill and Strategic Prince from Paul Cole’s stable.
