Bucanero Fuerte, trained by Adrian Murray, has been forced to withdraw from Friday’s Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot due to travel sickness.
The colt by Wootton Bassett had been considered a top contender for the Group One race following a successful return this season with a win at Naas. His impressive performances as a two-year-old, including a Group One victory in the Phoenix Stakes and a third-place finish in the Coventry Stakes last year, established him as one of the standout horses of his generation.
Unfortunately, after arriving in Ascot early, Bucanero Fuerte displayed signs of travel sickness, prompting his transfer to Newmarket Equine Hospital for monitoring as a precautionary measure.
A statement issued by his owners, Amo Racing, conveyed the situation: “Regrettably, Bucanero Fuerte will not be competing in the Commonwealth Cup on Friday. Upon arrival in Ascot yesterday, he exhibited symptoms of travel sickness and was subsequently moved to Newmarket Equine Hospital for observation overnight."
“He had a comfortable night and is currently in good condition this morning. However, he will be unable to participate in his scheduled race this Friday. We are now focused on his speedy recovery and are looking ahead to the remainder of the season.”
It's a disappointing turn for Bucanero Fuerte and his connections, but their primary concern now is ensuring his health and well-being before planning his future races.