Leading 2,000 Guineas contender Ancient Truth out of the race following a setback

Ancient Truth, who had been as short as 8-1 for the Betfred 2,000 Guineas, has been ruled out of the Newmarket Classic by Godolphin following a setback.

The son of Dubawi won his first three starts for Charlie Appleby, justifying favouritism in two novice contests before landing the Group 2 Superlative Stakes from Seagulls Eleven in July. 

Following a 91-day break, Ancient Truth was then stepped up in grade for the Dewhurst Stakes in October, when he missed out by half a length behind Shadow Of Light and Expanded.

In a statement on X, Godolphin said: "Ancient Truth will no longer be aimed at the 2,000 Guineas due to a setback. He'll be kept under veterinary supervision and a plan will be made for him for later in the season."

The market for the season's first Classic is headed by the Aidan O'Brien-trained Twain, who is as short as 5-1 with bet365, and is followed by Shadow Of Light, who has shortened into 13-2, and Expanded at 7-1.

Long-time ante-post favourite The Lion In Winter is not a certain runner, according to O'Brien, and his Guineas participation hinges on his progress in the coming weeks.

Breeders' Cup winner Henri Matisse was cut to 12-1 on Sunday after he swooped late to land the Group 3 Ballylinch Stud Red Rocks Stakes at Leopardstown.

Betfred 2,000 Guineas (3.35 Newmarket, May 3)
Bet 365: 5 Twain, 13-2 Shadow Of Light, 7 Expanded, 8 Cosmic Year, Scorthy Champ, 10 The Lion In Winter, Ruling Court, 12 Henri Matisse, Opera Ballo, 16 bar.

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