Aidan O'Brien has indicated that Constitution River's participation in the Betfred Derby is 'not written in stone', despite the colt's impressive victory in the Dee Stakes at Chester last week. The Ballydoyle handler confirmed that Benvenuto Cellini and Pierre Bonnard are definite contenders for the Epsom Classic, while Constitution River may instead target the French Derby over a mile and a quarter.
Market Moves and Uncertainties
Following his commanding Chester win, Constitution River was cut to 4-1 second favourite for the Derby by Ladbrokes, with stablemate Benvenuto Cellini heading the market at 11-4 after his Chester Vase success. Pierre Bonnard, who finished second in the Derby Trial at Leopardstown on Sunday, is also firmly on track for Epsom. However, O'Brien stressed that Constitution River's participation is not guaranteed, with a potential trip to France for the Prix du Jockey Club being considered.
Trainer's Insights
Speaking during a media event organised by the Jockey Club, O'Brien said: "At the moment, we are looking at the horse that won the Chester Vase, Benvenuto Cellini, for Epsom. We are also looking at the horse that ran yesterday, Pierre Bonnard, for Epsom. Constitution River could possibly go to France – it's not written in stone." The trainer explained that Constitution River's trial at Chester over a mile and a quarter was deliberately chosen to keep options open for a French campaign. He added: "The only thing is, if he goes to France, he's only been left-handed so far – he hasn't gone right-handed yet."
Stamina Assessments
O'Brien addressed stamina concerns for each horse. On Constitution River, he said: "Constitution River is one of those mile-and-a-quarter horses that could get a mile and a half, but you couldn't be sure. If you were riding him over a mile and a half, you'd be riding him a bit patiently. But he's a lot of speed and a lot of class." Regarding Benvenuto Cellini, he added: "He has a big, open stride and looks like a horse that you would be surprised if he didn't get a mile and a half, but at the same time, you would be surprised if he gets much further." Pierre Bonnard, he believes, will improve significantly: "We think he's going to step up again. He's going to get a mile and a half and could get further. He would have no problem going up to a mile and six furlongs."
Jockey Decisions
A key question is which mount Ryan Moore will choose. O'Brien revealed: "I think Ryan would find it very hard to get off Benvenuto Cellini, but I would imagine if Constitution River went he would probably get off Benvenuto Cellini. But it wouldn't be written in stone." The trainer also provided an update on Pierre Bonnard's preparation, noting that the horse was deliberately allowed to grow strong over winter and that his recent run was part of a gentle progression towards the Derby.
