Gigginstown out: how will jump racing cope without Michael's millions?

If Michael O’Leary sticks to his guns, over the next five years the landscape of the jump racing scene will alter dramatically.

Still, maybe that is the first point to note. O’Leary isn’t averse to a U-turn, so, while his announcement on May 14 that he would cease acquiring new stock for his all-conquering Gigginstown House Stud ownership vehicle was unambiguous, there is always wriggle room with the pugnacious Ryanair chief executive.

The pugnacious Ryanair chief executive in his office in DublinCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

From a vocal indifference to handicaps and juvenile hurdlers to preferred jockeys and trainers, the seven-time champion owner has a history of changing his mind.