Derby switch must avoid sporting clashes

Bookmakers would welcome an evening Investec Derby in principle – but warn it might not be an overwhelming success if it clashed with another major sporting event.

Epsom is reported to be considering moving the premier Classic to a Saturday evening slot in a bid to reverse the declining television audience of the great race.

While the betting fraternity is keen on any initiative that boosts interest in racing, it believes a head-to-head with another big occasion would cancel out the potential benefits.