Ramatuelle out of Breeders’ Cup Mile
Ramatuelle and jockey Aurelien Lemaitre
The Breeders’ Cup Mile will be without French star Ramatuelle who has been withdrawn from the race on veterinary advice.
Part-owned by NBA Hall of Famer Tony Parker, Ramatuelle stormed to an impressive three length victory in the Prix de la Foret at ParisLongchamp in her last outing in early October.
Christopher Head’s filly was expected to make a big impression at Del Mar after being given an inside draw but now the three-year-old has been pulled from the race.
Ramatuelle’s connections posted a statement on X said: “We are deeply disappointed that Ramatuelle has been withdrawn from the Breeders’ Cup, especially with the anticipation surrounding her as a leading contender in this prestigious event.
“She has been moving beautifully all week at Del Mar and is in peak physical condition, making today’s outcome understandably frustrating for our team.”
“We have immense respect for the Breeders’ Cup’s rigorous protocols and the dedicated veterinary team, whose responsibility to protect equine athletes is essential to our sport.
“Although Ramatuelle’s PET Scan report stated ‘no definitive major concern for breakdown was identified’, it showed signs of bone remodelling.
“While this is common in three-year-olds, it prompted the decision to proceed with an abundance of caution and withdraw her from the race.”
Head said: “Ramatuelle arrived in good order, she’s been training well, and she’s been eating up every day.
“This is obviously a disappointment and a bit of a shock for all of us, but at the end of the day, she’s healthy and well, and that’s what really matters.
“There will be more Breeders’ Cups for the stable, and we’ll look forward to those opportunities.”
