Harbinger's racing future in the balance

Racing: A decision on the future of Harbinger, officially rated the best Flat horse in the world, will be made today.

Racing:A decision on the future of Harbinger, officially rated the best Flat horse in the world, will be made today.

The excellent winner of the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes fractured his near-fore cannon bone during a routine run on the gallops in Newmarket on Saturday.

Although subsequent surgery has been a success, his racing career remains in the balance.

John Warren, director of Harbinger's owners, Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, said yesterday: "The horse is very comfortable and the cast that was put on his leg to help him get up after surgery has been taken off.

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"He's eating up well and has a very good demeanour about him, so it is a very good report about his well-being, which is a great relief.

"We plan to have a discussion with all the shareholders in the next 24 hours and then a decision about his future will be made tomorrow.

"After consultation with all concerned, we will make a statement."

Trained by Michael Stoute, Harbinger's finest hour came when he won last month's King George by 11 lengths in a record time.

He was next scheduled to run in the Juddmonte International at York later this month, after which the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe was on the agenda.

The son of Dansili was clear favourite for both races.

Stoute's charge has won his last four races, including the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot, and has accrued over £770,000 (€925,000) in prize-money.

Harry Herbert, racing manager for Highclere, said on Saturday: "This is a bitter blow for all 12 of Harbinger's (syndicate) owners and indeed all who are closely connected with the horse, as well as his many fans to whom he has become an icon following his amazing King George victory."

Warren added: "It's a devastating blow for the British racing public."