Bookies wary of Frankie
BOOKMAKERS are wary of old nemesis Frankie Dettori on what promises to be a vintage Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot.
The Italian could again have a major say at a track that brings out the best in him.
He has just the four rides, but Palace Pier in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes and Sunray Major in the Balmoral
Handicap are favourites — and the warning lights will start flashing should he land the opening Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup on the hugely popular Stradivarius.
Kinross is the biggest price of the Dettori quartet but cannot be discounted in the Qipco British Champions Sprint.
Strong
“We always fear the ‘Frankie factor’ regarding multiples when it comes to the big days, and today is no different with the strong book of rides he has,” said Paddy Power spokesman Paul Binfield.
“The fact he doesn’t have a full book makes it much less of a concern, although if the first three go in then the Balmoral Handicap could be a difficult watch for us, with Sunray Major very much fancied in this competitive handicap.
“It is interesting Palace Pier is odds against for the first time in his last six races.
“Punters could get behind him as it’s a nice price.”
Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “We are always nervous when it comes to Frankie Dettori on Champions Day for obvious reasons.
“We have already seen support for all four of his mounts and that should really ramp up.”
Sunray Major could be a handicap snip in the Balmoral.
“Unfortunately, we’re in stall 21 and we’ll need plenty of luck from there,” said Dettori.