Makfi retired to stud

The French-trained Makfi has been retired to stud following a bout of ringworm.

The colt caused a 33/1 shock in the 2,000 Guineas earlier this year and proved the win was no fluke by landing the prestigious Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.

Although he was disappointing in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot last month, connections had been considering a possible trip to the Breeders’ Cup.

He will instead take up stallion duties at Tweenhills Stud in Gloucestershire.

“He came back from Ascot with a little bit of ringworm and he has been retired to stud,” confirmed trainer Mikel Delzangles.

“He’s been a great horse to train this season and we have had a great year.

“It will be difficult to find another one like him, but we will try.”