Angel to miss Cup defence

CLIVE COX has lost his race against time to get defending champion Harry Angel fit for Saturday’s Darley July Cup at Newmarket.

The Godolphin-owned colt — the highest-rated sprinter in the world last year – suffered a cut to his leg when playing up in the stalls prior to the Diamond Jubilee at Royal Ascot last month.

Cox issued an upbeat bulletin on his wellbeing last week, but admitted yesterday his star sprinter will not take part in the Group 1 feature.

“I’m afraid he’s not going to make it in time for Saturday,” Cox said.

“After reporting he was doing well, I feel he is still not 100 per cent.

“I couldn’t be confident at this level. You have to be at the top of your game to win a July Cup.

“I need more time to get him back to his very best. I feel that the Haydock Sprint Cup in September is a more realistic plan for him.”

King’s Stand winner Blue Point now heads the market at 3-1.

3 Kings Point, 9-2 US Navy Flag, 6 Eqtidaar, 8 Sands Of Mali, 10 others.