War Decree hints at bigger things to come in Dundalk Group 3

Last seen finishing just over two lengths behind Brametot when fifth in the French Derby, the Aidan O'Brien-trained War Decree returned from a mini mid-season break to turn what looked like a competitive Group 3 at Dundalk into little more than an exercise gallop.

War Decree never came out of second gear as he brushed aside Absolute Blast by a little over two lengths, with the 7-4 favourite Abingdon a further length behind in third.

It was a performance that suggested there will be bigger things to come at the end of a season that hasn’t quite gone to plan for the colt.

After the race, winning rider Donnacha O’Brien suggested as much, and admitted the Breeders' Cup would probably come under consideration.

"He's a horse who has a lot of natural talent but he can be a little bit tricky at times and it was nice to get him back to winning ways," the jockey said.

"War Decree has a lot of ability but getting it out of him can be hard at times. He loved that surface and hard ground is what he needs.

"He had a little break after his run in France, and that was a lovely prep run for him if he did go down the Breeders' Cup route. I would say that would suit him as he likes quick ground."

Diamond Stakes result