Camelot firms for Arc de Triomphe

Nathaniel is the latest high-profile absentee from Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.  He follows Danedream and Snow Fairy who have been withdrawn in the last week.

Nathaniel (Galileo) had been second-favourite for the Longchamp feature after victories in the King George and Eclipse Stakes.  “He spiked a temperature and his blood was found to not be right,” trainer John Gosden said.  “In light of that, he is a non-runner in the Arc.”

Aidan O’Brien confirmed Camelot will take his chance when 18 horses were left in the Arc field at Tuesday’s confirmation stage.  The Montjeu colt is proving popular at 3/1 with punters looking for an alternative to Orfevre.  He could challenge the Japanese raider for favouritism with news Ballydoyle has engaged Frankie Dettori.

O’Brien will also saddle up stablemate St Nicholas Abbey who was beaten six lengths by Danedream in last year’s Arc.  He will be ridden by the trainer’s son Joseph who was criticised after Camelot lost his unbeaten record in the English St Leger last month.