PETRUSHKA OUT OF WORLD CUP

Petrushka has been withdrawn from the US$6million Group I Dubai World Cup.

Following veterinary advice, trainer Sir Michael Stoute notified Les Benton, Chairman of the Dubai World Cup Committee, of the filly's withdrawal.

'Obviously we are extremely disappointed that a top class filly such as Petrushka has been forced to withdrawn from the Dubai World Cup,' Benton said.

'However our primary concern is always the welfare of the horse and while we are disappointed we do sympathise with connections of Petrushka and her trainer and wish them every success in the future.'

Harry Herbert, managing director of owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing PLC, explained: 'She has sustained a very small chip to her off-hind fetlock but it is a relatively minor setback and she will be back in the summer.

'She worked superbly yesterday, she has been really pleasing everyone out there and she has retained all of her enthusiasm and ability.

'She took a couple of bad steps afterwards and although she was sound at evening stables, it became apparent when she was thoroughly checked over that she had done a bit of damage.

'It`s unbelievable for all the shareholders, we have got so close only for this to happen and it`s terrible for Michael who has done such a great job to great her ready.'

Petrushka will now return to Britain as soon as can be arranged where she will have a minor operation before embarking upon a campaign taking in all the big middle-distance prizes.

'It is only a small thing to remove a flake of bone, she will need about a month`s box rest and then she will have a steady recuperation for the summer,' Herbert said.

'Her first target could be the King George but she will ultimately be aimed at the Arc de Triomphe.'

Highclere will still be represented at the World Cup meeting by the Richard Hannon-trained Prizeman, who will be ridden by Johnny Murtagh in the UAE Derby.

Herbert added: 'He worked well on the dirt last Friday andtouchwood, he`s looking good so let`s hope we have something to cheer us up a bit.'