Ultra is a Derby doubt after setback

Ultra narrowly wins the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp last year. Image copyright of Racingfotos.com

Ultra, a leading hope for the the Investec Derby, has met with a setback and is not certain to be ready for the Epsom showpiece on June 4.

John Ferguson, racing manager for Godolphin, the owners, said today: “Ultra has developed a splint and, as a result, has missed training at a crucial time.

"He is unlikely to be ready for any major prep races, which in turn puts his Classic aspirations on hold."

The unbeaten Andre Fabre-trained colt captured the Group One Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere on his final juvenile appearance and had been a top-priced 16-1 for the Derby.

Fabre, the serial French champion trainer, won the Derby, the second race in the Middle Distance category of the QIPCO British Champions Series, with Pour Moi in 2011.

One horse pencilled in for Epsom on Derby day is Postponed. Roger Varian, his trainer, has indicated that his stable star’s next run will be in the Investec Coronation Cup.