Godolphin’s European team raring to go as racing resumes

After a suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic that has lasted several weeks, and continues for the time being in some countries, the European racing season is now back underway and action resumes in France on May 11, at Longchamp.

Godolphin will be represented by six runners in total, five from Andre Fabre’s yard - including last year’s G1 Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere winner Victor Ludorum - and one trained by Henri-Alex Pantall.

The unbeaten Shamardal colt bids for a third victory over a mile at Longchamp in the trial for the G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains, which is scheduled to take place over the same course and distance on Monday, 1 June.

Earthlight was also entered in the Prix de Fontainebleau but the 2019 G1 Middle Park Stakes winner will not be taking up his engagement after spraining a fetlock.

Andre Fabre, who trains both colts, said: “Earthlight pulled up slightly sore after work yesterday and upon examination appears to have a fetlock sprain. He will have a couple of easy days and won’t run next week. The horse has done really well over the winter and we are looking forward to seeing him back on the track soon.

“Victor Ludorum looks to be in good form and has really benefited from the fine spring. He will run in the G3 Prix de Fontainebleau on Monday at Longchamp.”

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director of Godolphin UK and Dubai said: “We are delighted that our season here in Europe will start with Victor Ludorum going in the G3 Prix de Fontainebleau on Monday.

“We very sadly lost his outstanding sire Shamardal last month and it is very appropriate that we will see one of his brilliant three-year-old colts in action on day one of this season.

“In the UK and Dubai, Godolphin has continued to operate to best effect under the significant restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. For our riders and stable staff, social distancing and sensible precautions have allowed them to train horses much as normal and I am full of admiration for them and the trainers for their incredible patience and hard work under difficult circumstances. Saeed and Charlie have a lot of talent to work with and I know are ready whenever we get the green light.

“On the studs, the covering season is running very smoothly and the majority of our 2020 foals have now been safely delivered.

“Away from the yards, Godolphin people have been doing great work in our local community helping wherever we can, from delivering food to vulnerable people to our team in Dubai assisting the Newmarket Academy with the translation of documents for home schooling. Our charities team is also working incredibly hard on the board of the Newmarket Covid-19 Fund.

“The work of the Godolphin Lifetime Care team carries on and is currently being highlighted by our Furlong Factor finalist Lilli Hines, who is helping Racing Welfare to raise much-needed funds. In France, we are supporting Au-delà des Pistes, while in Ireland, work on education initiatives continues.

“Now, more than ever, I think we all recognise the fantastic work done by the NHS, staff in care homes and all those people who are working tirelessly to keep our services going here in Newmarket and in Dubai.

“For good reason, we have already missed some key events such as the Dubai World Cup and the Guineas and the pandemic will continue to affect us for months to come.”

“All we can do is follow government advice and keep going. Godolphin prides itself on always looking forward - we have fantastic staff and fantastic horses and every reason to be extremely positive about the season ahead.”