THE late defection of dual Group 1 winner Fascinating Rock from the line up for the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes is disappointing, but it in no way lessens the strength of the field for the €1.25 million centrepiece of the Longines Irish Champions Weekend. More of a case of someone removing the cherry from the top of an exotic cake.

In what could be the race of the season in Europe, and the world, nine Group 1 winners of 19 such races will face off for the richest prize in Irish racing. They have already amassed earnings of a staggering £14.5 million (over €17 million at today’s exchange rate) and it is a real possibility that we will see a world champion land the spoils.