Talking Horses: Dettori’s farewell looms at Derby amid protest threat

S ixteen colts are still in the running for the Derby at Epsom on Saturday after Passenger, third home after a tricky passage in the Dante Stakes at York this month, was added to the field at a cost of £85,000 at the five-day declaration stage on Monday morning.

The question of which of them will set off as favourite, however, may not be resolved until the off-time of 1.30pm, as four horses – Military Order, Auguste Rodin, Passenger and Arrest – are currently priced between 7-2 and 6-1, with Arrest in particular likely to attract support on the day as he will be Frankie Dettori’s final ride in the Classic.

And the Farewell Frankie factor is just one among a multitude of storylines – actual and potential – attached to this year’s running of the original and best Derby, which will be the 244th in all since Diomed took the spoils in 1780.

Sir Michael Stoute became the oldest trainer to saddle a Derby winner when Desert Crown obliged favourite-backers last year, and will extend the mark to 77 years of age if Passenger, who did not see a racecourse until mid-April, gives the Niarchos family a first Derby success.

Success for Military Order would also be historic in its way, as he is a full brother to Adayar, the winner in 2021, and two brothers have not taken the Derby since Diamond Jubilee, in 1890, followed up the success of Persimmon four years earlier. Dubai Mile is a live 16-1 chance to give Charlie Johnston a Derby win in his first full season with a licence, while Sprewell would be a hugely popular first winner for 76-year-old Jessica Harrington.

Leicester 1.55 Ocean Runner 2.30 Impressive Act 3.00 Annie Law 3.30 Prophet’s Dream 4.00 She’s A Mirage 4.30 Musical Tribute 5.05 Raincloud

Brighton 2.10 I’m Mable (nb) 2.40