Al Riffa’s racing career over

Al Riffa has been retired from racing after further veterinary examinations revealed a career-ending injury, bringing an end to plans for a return to Australia and another shot at the Melbourne Cup in 2027.

The six-year-old, trained in Ireland by Joseph O’Brien and raced by Australian Bloodstock, had been earmarked for a racetrack return after what connections initially believed was a minor setback following a demanding season.

However, hopes of seeing the globetrotting stayer back on the track were extinguished this week when fresh scans showed a deterioration in a suspensory injury.

The three-time Group 1 winner will now likely head to stud.

Australian Bloodstock’s Jamie Lovett confirmed the decision to retire the son of Wootton Bassett after consulting with veterinarians in Ireland and Australia.

“Unfortunately, it’s not good news,” Lovett told owners.

“Sarah, Joseph O’Brien’s vet, has scanned him again in consultation with our vet Rob McGuinness and unfortunately the suspensory has actually come away.

“From a rehab perspective, given his age and he’s quite a big masculine heavy horse, the prognosis is poor to rehab him from a racing perspective.”

Lovett said retirement was the most prudent option given the horse’s age and the severity of the injury.

“Taking advice from both vets, unfortunately the only decision to make is to retire the horse,” he said.

While his racing days are over, connections are optimistic about Al Riffa’s prospects in the breeding barn.

“The injuries sustained won’t affect his future career as a stallion,” Lovett said.

“He’s an outstandingly performed horse, he’s got a big pedigree, and he’s a striking looking stallion, so he ticks every box in that regard.”