Stuart Riley: stakes at their highest for Coolmore and Godolphin on big stage

Some clashes mean more than others in sport.

This week you may be playing Bournemouth in the league, next week it’s Barcelona in Europe. This week you’re playing a tour event, next week it’s a Grand Slam or a Major. And it doesn’t stop there, playing Rafael Nadal on grass is not the same as on clay, and playing him in Brazil is not the same as playing him in Paris.

When it comes to racing it does not get any bigger than Coolmore versus Godolphin and, sure, both would take a win over the other whenever they can get it – but it matters most on the biggest stages.