Emperor retired following Washington shock

Holy Roman Emperor has been retired to stud at Coolmore to replace George Washington following the discovery that last year’s 2000 Guineas hero has fertility problems.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained Holy Roman Emperor had been second-favourite for this year’s Newmarket Classic behind his old adversary Teofilo.

A statement from Coolmore said: “In the very early stages of George Washington’s stud career, his fertility has been questioned. Coolmore today brought in veterinary expert Dr Dixon Varner from the USA to consult on the matter and are awaiting prognosis.”