Harry Herbert has warned Harbinger will not line up in the Juddmonte International at York later this month if ground conditions are deemed unsuitable.
The four-year-old became the highest-rated horse in the world following his devastating King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes success, and the Knavesmire Group One is his next target on the way to the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
However, the Dansili colt would have to be supplemented for the race at a cost of £50,000 and Herbert, racing manager for owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, warned ground conditions will be have to be right if he is to take his chance on August 17.
Herbert said: "I've been talking to Sir Michael (Stoute) and we just thought it was important to let everybody know that Harbinger would not be supplemented for York unless ground conditions were suitable for the horse.
"If it was very fast ground he wouldn't run and if it was fast ground come supplementary day (August 11) and it looked like it would be too quick for him, then obviously that would be a non-starter.
"The horse seems in great form, Sir Michael is very pleased with him and the plan is very much to run there, but the ground must be suitable."
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