Motivator in top form

Trainer Michael Bell reports Motivator to have worked “extremely well” today ahead of his return to action in next weekend’s Coral-Eclipse Stakes.

The hugely impressive Vodafone Derby winner will be taking on older horses for the first time at Sandown, though his chief opponent is expected to be another three-year-old in Shamardal.

Speaking at the Newmarket meeting this evening, Bell told Racing UK: “He worked extremely well his morning. It’s the only bit of work he’ll do between the Derby and the Eclipse and we’re looking forward to the race.

“They are announcing the ground at Sandown as good to firm for Friday. I think they’ve been watering pretty consistently this week, because you’ve got to in this weather, and good to firm ground would be fine.”