Godolphin retire Sakhee

Last year’s champion older horse Sakhee has been retired, it was announced today.

Godolphin’s five-year-old proved a virtual world beater last season when he slammed his rivals in the Juddmonte International and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, as well as coming agonising close to landing the Breeders’ Cup Classic at Belmont.

He was beaten just a nose under Frankie Dettori by Tiznow in that never-to-be-forgotten battle on the sand.

But he disappointed in the Dubai World Cup in March and was beaten by Wellbeing in a French Group Three in August and has not run since.

Racing manager Simon Crisford told the organisation’s official website: “Sakhee’s campaign has been held up this year owing to the fact that his knee problem meant that we couldn’t possibly risk him on the firm ground that has prevailed for so long both at home and on the racecourse.

“Sakhee has been a great Champion for Godolphin and his stunning victory in the Arc last year and brilliant run in the Breeders’ Cup Classic were the highlights for us.

“It is a great shame that he will not make the Champion Stakes.”

The son of Bahri will be retired to Shadwell Stud, where he will stand for a fee of £20,000 (€31,621).