Lexus added to Million series

Irish-trained horses are being encouraged to target the Betfair Million with the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown being added to the series next season.

Trainers can now choose between the Stan James King George VI Chase at Kempton on ST Stephen's Day or the Lexus two days later as the second leg.

The second running of the series starts with the Betfair Chase at Haydock on November 18 and culminates with the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup in March.

Last year, the Robert Alner-trained Kingscliff won the Betfair Chase but his attempt to keep the bonus dream alive ended in disappointment at Sandown over Christmas.

Next season, the bonus will again kick off with the Grade One Betfair Chase, with the winner collecting an extra £1m (€1.4m) if going on to land the Cheltenham Gold Cup after success in the King George or the Lexus.

Beef Or Salmon is likely to try to improve on his second in last year’s Betfair, according to his trainer Michael Hourigan.