James Fanshawe feels optimistic about Ambiente Friendly as they prepare for the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at the Curragh on Sunday. Ambiente Friendly was a strong winner at the Lingfield Derby Trial and put up a good fight at the Derby at Epsom, finishing just behind City Of Troy. Fanshawe is pleased with the colt's condition and progress since the Epsom race, feeling confident about their chances at the upcoming event.
Although facing a rematch with Aidan O’Brien’s Los Angeles, Ambiente Friendly has a good lead of over three lengths. Fanshawe mentioned that Ambiente Friendly has been looking bright and in good shape during training, and he is particularly pleased with how well the colt is moving. With a favourable weather forecast for the week, Fanshawe expects no issues with the ground conditions at the Curragh.
O’Brien will have six contenders in the race, but Ambiente Friendly remains the favourite ahead of Los Angeles according to Ladbrokes. The British-trained colt will be up against stiff competition, including Roger Varian’s Matsuri and potentially David Menuisier’s Sunway, in the Group One event.
The Gain Railway Stakes on the same card will see O’Brien’s Henri Mattise among the entries, alongside British contenders Principality and The Strikin Viking. The stage is set for an exciting showdown between British and Irish contenders at the upcoming races.