Connections remain hopeful that there is no significant damage to Haatem

Haatem appears to have avoided serious injury after his dramatic late withdrawal from the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville on Sunday.

The colt, trained by Richard Hannon, had an impressive start to his three-year-old season with a victory in the Craven Stakes, followed by a third-place finish in the 2000 Guineas and a close second to his stablemate Rosallion in the Irish equivalent. After being acquired by the prominent Wathnan Racing, Haatem secured a narrow win in the Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot, raising expectations for his Group One return in France.

However, James Doyle, who was riding Haatem, became concerned with the colt's movement, leading to his quick declaration as a non-runner.

An immediate X-ray showed no abnormalities, and Haatem has since returned to Britain for further assessment. Connections remain hopeful that there is no significant damage.

Richard Brown, the European racing adviser for Wathnan Racing, reported that Haatem travelled back well and the team was eager to get him home as quickly as possible. He noted that they are currently evaluating the colt and expect to have more information within the next 24 to 48 hours, with early signs indicating that it is likely nothing serious.

Brown also explained that James Doyle felt Haatem took a few awkward steps and didn’t seem right, leading him to pull the horse up immediately. While a clearer picture is expected in the next day or so, there is currently no indication of anything severe. Precautions will be taken, and all plans are on hold for the moment.