Most trainers fortunate to have a representative in this year’s Epsom Derby will be sweating at the prospect of preparing just one horse for the famous Classic. For Aidan O’Brien, it is about whittling his team down to the right number.
O’Brien spoke at a media morning on Monday, confirming likely plans for those currently entered in the Epsom Derby. Of particular interest were his notes on his leading triumvirate for the race: Benvenuto Cellini, Constitution River and Pierre Bonnard.
The first-named duo were both impressive winners at odds of 2/9 at Chester last week. Though neither had to beat much in terms of their opposition, they each impressed on the clock. Pierre Bonnard has had to work harder back in Ireland this term, though. He was favourite for the Derby at the beginning of 2026, but has twice been beaten this season.
That is unlikely to dissuade O’Brien, or indeed some punters, from his Derby chances. Indeed, he and Benvenuto Cellini are near-certain runners at Epsom barring mishap.
“At the moment, we are looking at the horse that won the Chester Vase, Benvenuto Cellini, for Epsom,” O’Brien said, as reported by At The Races. “We are also looking at Pierre Bonnard, for Epsom.”
Conversely, Constitution River, now the Derby second favourite, may run elsewhere. The Prix du Jockey Club is the likelier destination for the son of Wootton Bassett.
“Constitution River could possibly go to France – it’s not written in stone. The two horses that went to France for their trials (Montreal and Hawk Mountain), the plan with both of them was definitely to go to France. Those two went to Chantilly around the track.”
Ryan Moore “would probably get off Benvenuto Cellini” – O’Brien
Benvenuto Cellini is therefore Ryan Moore’s likely partner at Epsom. That could all change, however, were Constitution River to be diverted to the downs.
“Constitution River is one of those mile-and-a-quarter horses that could get a mile-and-a-half, but you couldn’t be sure. If you were riding him over a mile-and-a-half, you’d be riding him a bit patiently. But he has a lot of speed and a lot of class.
“Benvenuto Cellini has speed and class as well. He has a big, open stride and looks like a horse that you would be surprised if he didn’t get a mile and a half, but at the same time, you would be surprised if he gets much further.
“I think Ryan would find it very hard to get off Benvenuto Cellini, but I would imagine if Constitution River went he would probably get off Benvenuto Cellini. But it wouldn’t be written in stone.”