The Derby: Record-breaker Aidan eyes another Blue Riband

The Betfred Derby is one of the most famous and celebrated sporting events in the world. Horse racing's Blue Riband. A rich history that dates back to 1780, and a list of former champions that reads like a who's-who of the sport of flat racing. Let me just throw half a dozen legends your way - there are literally hundreds to choose from.

Nijinsky, Sea Bird, Shergar, Galileo, Sea The Stars, Golden Horn. It's the ultimate test of the three-year-old thoroughbred, at a demanding venue quite unlike any other. A searching examination on the Downs that only the very best can pass with flying colours. Aidan O'Brien has saddled 10 Epsom Derby winners - an all-time record. Want the latest on his hopes for 2025 - and what he thinks of Fred's £2 million bonus for lifting racing's Triple Crown? Kindly see below, in entertaining conversation with Betfred's Matt Hulmes.

Horse Racing Odds

Today's Horse Races

It's reasonable odds that we won't have to wait an eternity for Aidan's eleventh Derby winner - and the market right now reckons that might well be The Lion In Winter, on Saturday June 7.

His handsome Sea The Stars colt looks to emulate its famous sire, but would doubtless have kicked off his three-year-old campaign in the 2000 Guineas but for being a little behind in terms of preparation.

One thing you can be 100% sure about is that 'the lads,' Aidan, and the whole Ballydoyle machinery wouldn't rush one, when a little time was perhaps what was required.

However, as Aidan explains to Matt in the interview video footage below, 'Lion' is thought likely to take his chance on the Knavesmire for York's rightly much-vaunted Derby trial, the Dante Stakes, in mid-May, en route to a shot at Epsom glory.

Aidan's rationale goes something like this; at around 80% fitness, you have no chance of winning the Guineas. Zero. It's a tough straight mile, and many searching questions are asked coming in and out of the famous Dip, at the business end. Tough undulations, unforgiving fractions.

Contrast that to York's flat pastures, 10f+ in which to get organised, and you might just get away with being 80% ready. Far more chance at any rate than at HQ.

So - that's the plan for The Lion In Winter. York (I'll be there), then a potential date with destiny on the Downs. Aidan's got a stack of entries in the great race, but this one at this stage at least is arguably his best shot at taking yet another Group 1 - one of the most sought-after on the planet.

York's Dante meeting is May 14 - 16 inclusive (Weds-Fri), and the Betfred Derby/Oaks weekend is June 6 and 7 (Fri-Sat). Understatement of the century alert - we can't wait.

Horse Racing Tips from Betfred Insights.