There will be no further races for Royal Ascot winner Haatem this season, as owners Wathnan Racing focus on a 2025 campaign following a setback that occurred before the Prix Jacques le Marois.
Trained by Richard Hannon, the Phoenix Of Spain colt won the Craven Stakes and achieved placements in both the 2000 Guineas and its Irish counterpart earlier in the season under former owner Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah.
A key acquisition for Qatari operation Wathnan leading up to Royal Ascot, Haatem demonstrated his class by securing a thrilling victory in the Jersey Stakes, overcoming Kikkuli in a dramatic finish after dropping back to seven furlongs.
However, Haatem was a leading contender for a Group One return at Deauville last month. Unfortunately, jockey James Doyle expressed concerns about the colt on the way to the start, leading to his withdrawal just as the field began to load.
Subsequent investigations identified the issue, which, although described as "nothing serious," has led to the decision to end his three-year-old season. Haatem remains entered in future races like the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Qipco British Champions Day, but connections prefer to prioritise his recovery and aim for a strong return next year.
Richard Brown, racing adviser to Wathnan Racing, commented: "We’ve identified the issue that was affecting him, and fortunately, it’s not serious. However, given the time constraints for the end-of-year targets, we’ve decided to conclude his season. We look forward to having him back in top form for next year’s major mile races."