Smullen keen on Harzand's chances in Group 1 showpiece

Pat Smullen has spoken confidently of Harzand becoming the horse to secure him a first victory in the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday.

The eight-time champion jockey, who enjoyed the biggest win of his career on Dermot Weld's Aga Khan-owned colt in the Investec Derby in June, told the Racing Post he has immense belief in his big-race mount.

Irish Champion Stakes card

"I've huge confidence in Harzand," Smullen said of the son of Sea The Stars, who will be dropping back to a mile and a quarter for a first time since beating Idaho in the Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown in April. "I'd like to think he's is the best middle-distance colt around and that he's still improving, and I think he'll run a big race.