Ruler Of The World aiming to dominate Irish Derby field

Ruler Of The World has been given an official rating of 120 for his Derby win, the lowest in recent times, and is reopposed by both the second and third from Epsom.

Runner-up Libertarian has since been purchased by Godolphin and many believe that this long-striding colt will be better suited by the Curragh. He was making ground rapidly in the last furlong but Ruler Of The World still had a length and a half to spare at the line.

Galileo Rock was always handy at Epsom and stayed on gamely under pressure to hold third place. He has always shaped like more of a St Leger horse but will also be favoured by a more galloping track. He had earlier looked a little one-paced when a close third to Sugar Boy at Sandown with Libertarian back in fourth.

Sugar Boy has also changed hands recently and is now owned by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, the first cousin of Sheikh Mohammed. He was not entered for Epsom as connections felt that the track would not suit him but they are optimistic of a big run on Saturday.

Libertarian had a valid excuse for finishing behind Sugar Boy at Sandown as he was carried across the track by a rival and lost all chance. He looked a much-improved colt when winning the Dante Stakes at York and will have the assistance of a pacemaker in the form of Cap O’Rushes.

Aidan O’Brien also saddles Festive Cheer who only beat two home at Epsom but was hampered during the race. He was previously a close third at Longchamp and is probably better than he showed in the Derby.

John Oxx saddles Little White Cloud who has placed in the Derrinstown Trial and the Gallinule Stakes. The Gallinule form was given a boost when the winner, Leading Light, followed up at Royal Ascot.

Jim Bolger’s Trading Leather was beaten just over a length by Libertarian at York and then finished third to Magician in the Irish 2000 Guineas. He went on to win a listed race over ten furlongs last time out and this will be his first start at a mile and a half.