Godolphin's China Visit will miss the Sagitta 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on May 6th in favour of a crack at the Kentucky Derby the same day, it was confirmed today.
The Red Ransom colt had been as short as 4-1 for the Guineas with Ladbrokes following his impressive victory in the UAE Derby at Nad Al Sheba last week although connections had hinted that he would run at Churchill Downs instead.
The three-year-old will be entered on Saturday at the second nomination stage for the Triple Crown Series, of which the Kentucky Derby is the first leg.
The Kiaran McLaughlin-trained Curule, who finished third to China Visit on Saturday, will also be entered, while Godolphin are also hoping to run American import Chief Seattle at Churchill Downs.
Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford said: "Sheikh Maktoum is very keen to go for the Kentucky Derby with his home-bred colt China Visit.
"We are hoping that Chief Seattle will also be able to take part in the Kentucky Derby and we are now planning their shipping arrangements."
China Visit was trained by David Loder in France last year when he won his only race at Deauville by eight lengths.
Chief Seattle finished second in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile to Anees in November and has been in Dubai since February.
