EPSOM Derby favourite Luxembourg is a huge doubt for the race after suffering a setback in training.
An eyecatching third in the 2000 Guineas after missing the start, Aidan O’Brien’s star had been backed into 2-1 for the £1.5million contest.
But the Ballydoyle supremo told the Racing Post the three-year-old is in a massive race against time for the June 4 showpiece.
He said: “Luxembourg was a little bit off after his canter this morning. He was a little lame on his off-hind.
“We are not sure of the reason why at this stage, but we wanted to let everybody know with the Derby coming up.
“Hopefully in a couple of days, we will know more and we will issue an update then.”
With a big betting shake-up, O’Brien’s other top chance Changingoftheguard was thrust into 6-1 from 10-1.
That horse rubber stamped his credentials when turning over 1-3 Godolphin hotshot New London in the Chester Vase on Wednesday.
Ladbrokes eased Luxembourg out to 3-1 from 2-1.
Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Luxembourg’s setback has obviously stirred up the Derby market.
“He’s the only horse we have properly laid for the race and his supporters will have a nervy couple of days waiting for an update.”
Punters reacted with horror at the news, especially after 1000 Guineas ante post fav Inspiral was ruled out before the big race.
Bettors had been piling into both horses thinking they would be tough to beat in their respective races.
One punter said regarding Luxembourg: “Would have p***ed up in the Derby.”
Another showed his betting slip that showed him backing Inspiral and Luxembourg in a four-fold with Cheltenham Festival winners A Plus Tard and Honeysuckle.
A fellow Twitter user commented: “Cancel the Derby.”
Epsom Derby odds via Ladbrokes
3-1 Luxembourg
6-1 Changingoftheguard
7-1 Piz Badile, Walk Of Stars
9-1 Desert Crown
12-1 Star Of India
14-1 Bar
