Friday 3 June 2011

Fallon Derby Doubt


A High Court judge is deciding whether Kieren Fallon can ride in Saturday's Investec Derby at Epsom.

Mr Justice MacDuff, sitting in London, has been urged to grant an injunction by the owners of 2000 Guineas third Native Khan, which would prevent Fallon taking part in the premier Classic.

They claim that three-time Derby winner Fallon has broken a "promise" to ride their horse and should be prevented from riding another in the race. Fallon, who attended the court for this afternoon's hearing, denied breach of contract and said there has been an "innocent misunderstanding".

Lawyers for owner Ibrahim Araci argued that he had been "badly let down" by Fallon, who is set to partner Aidan O'Brien's Recital, whom he rode to win the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown.

Fallon guided the Ed Dunlop-trained Native Khan to victory in the Craven Stakes at Newmarket on his first start of the year.

Olivier Peslier rode the grey when he finished third in the Guineas behind Frankel as Fallon was suspended.

The judge will give his ruling later today.