HAS the Irish National Stud found a replacement for current star resident Invincible Spirit?

This week the INS revealed it will stand Invincible Spirit’s Group 1 winning son National Defense next year. Trained by Criquette Head-Maarek, National Defense won on his debut by six lengths and then won the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere by four and a half lengths.

Rated 118p by Timeform, he did not recapture that form in two starts this year.

The INS hopes its new recruit can emulate previous Lagardere winners such as Blushing Groom, Irish River, Holy Roman Emperor, Siyouni and Dabirsim by becoming a successful stallion.

National Defense is from the immediate family of group performers Anna Palariva, Anna Salai, Advice, Iguazu Falls, Anshaam and Ancestor, Dubai Gina and Ave.

He is bred on the same Mr Prospector cross as Group 1 winners Hooray, Charm Spirit, Signs Of Blessing, Lawman and Kingman. His shares his broodmare sire, Kingmambo, with Midday, Camelot, Duke Of Marmalade, Maids Causeway, Cloth Of Stars and Ulysses.

Cathal Beale, CEO of the Irish National Stud, commented: “National Defense is a beautifully made individual and moulded with the same physical strength of his sire. He is a very exciting addition to our roster.

“A number of lifetime breeding rights will be available and we look forward to welcoming breeders to join us on this journey.”