Exclusive – Aidan O’Brien in conversation

The peerless trainer discusses forthcoming autumn highlights including the Betfred St Leger, looks forward to the next chapter for City Of Troy, and the 2025 Betfred-sponsored Classics Triple Crown bonus.

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"This time of the year is always something to really look forward to - I think everybody does, all over the world. Very high-class races ... and all parts of the world are watching."

The words of Aidan O'Brien, in conversation with Betfred's Matt Hulmes. You can watch the interview in full below - and it might just be the most illuminating 11 minutes or so of sporting insight available anywhere this week.

Aidan has runners primed for the great Betfred St Leger Festival starting soon (Thursday-Sunday, September 12-15 inclusive). The Leger is the oldest Classic, and the Master of Ballydoyle has taken the prize on seven previous occasions. He adds vital insight here to the chances of making that eight.

His UK Classic haul by my reckoning is 44, a stunning testament to his immense skill and attention to detail. Add legendary humility and a wonderful trait of warmly thanking and appreciating every contribution from his team that advances the cause of the thoroughbred. Hard to think of anyone more revered and respected in the game.

His latest great horse City Of Troy, the Derby, Eclipse and Juddmonte International hero he's described as the most talented he's ever trained, also features prominently. Aidan has interesting plans to aid his Breeders' Cup preparation, and discusses his journey from Guineas disappointment to force of nature.

I was lucky enough to be present on the Knavesmire to witness this handsome son of Justify up close, and his pulsating win in what is now one of the world's most exalted contests. It was a real privilege - a pinch yourself moment that you were there to see it.

It takes a very special horse to win the Betfred St Leger, and Aidan outlines exactly what the qualities and requirements are to triumph on Town Moor. As I said at the head of the piece, it makes for an intriguing watch.

Finally, a look forward to 2025, and the Holy Grail of a potential Triple Crown. Aidan's understandably delighted with Betfred's £2m bonus for a horse securing the 2000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger - a feat not achieved since the great Nijinsky managed it so gracefully in 1970.

We're presently 10/1 about that happening next season, and if anyone can, it's surely the 54-year-old Wexford-born phenomenon. Fred is thrilled to be the first bookmaker to be sponsoring all five UK Classics and as he recently said concerning the bonus, "although Camelot came very close in 2012, it seems about time we were celebrating another winner."

Camelot trained by? Who else. AP O'Brien.

Enough - please watch and listen to one of the world's greatest-ever trainers. There's yet more history to be made.

Horse Racing Tips from Betfred Insights.