Rio De La Plata in Ascot fitness race

Frankie Dettori is hoping Rio De La Plata will be fit to take his chance in the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot next week.

Godolphin’s retained rider reported that the French 2000 Guineas runner-up was a little tender after pulling off a shoe in the Vodafone Derby in which he finished seventh behind New Approach.

“He pulled a shoe off coming out of the stalls which didn’t help,” said Dettori.

“At the back of my mind we always thought he was a doubtful stayer. But we tried, he ran a good race and he took me to the two-furlong marker.

“He was a bit tender on his foot after the Derby but hopefully he’ll come back for the St James’s Palace.

“Henrythenavigator is a worthy favourite, but Rio has got to take his chance and why not.

“He’s a good horse, he ran very well in France and I’ve got high hopes for him,” Dettori told 'At The Races'.