The Irish Derby takes place on Saturday and it’s set to be a cracking renewal. Sixteen horses have stood their ground at the five-day stage and there are some fascinating contenders. With no standout favourite, it should be a competitive affair. Epsom Derby third, Westover is the current favourite but Liam Bramall is looking elsewhere with an unexposed colt. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Joseph O’Brien has already won an Irish Derby as a trainer back in 2018 but he’ll be looking to try and catch up with his father Aidan who holds the record with 14 victories. Hannibal Barca (10-1, bet 365) looks like an excellent candidate having won a Group 3 on seasonal debut last time out.
His form as a two-year-old for Brian Meehan was rock solid including a smart effort in the Vertem Futurity Trophy behind Luxembourg. It was therefore no surprise to see him build on that in the Gallinule Stakes over 1m2f first time out. Improvement can be expected as he should be fitter this time round with the benefit of that run under his belt.
The extra two furlongs are unlikely to cause a problem as his juvenile form suggested middle-distances would suit in the long term. The colt’s dam had form at up to 1m4f so he may well improve for the extra distance. Improvement will be needed but it’s likely there’s plenty more to come.
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