If he can win the Eclipse over the shorter distance than the Derby it will add considerably to Authorized's value as a stallion, as breeders increasingly favour speed above stamina influences. It would also help cheer up the Godolphin operation who are suffering yet another nightmare season on the racetrack. But there is a fly in the Dubai ointment, and not surprisingly it landed there from Co Tipperary.

Ballydoyle intend to field four runners in the race, including the increasingly charismatic 'gorgeous' George Washington. George's difficulties in the breeding shed have been well documented and when he returned to the track last month at Royal Ascot he ran like a troublesome teenager, agreeing to race properly only when Michael Kinane read him the riot act. He has yet to win beyond a mile and if he can beat Authorized over 10 furlongs it will greatly add to his attraction as a stallion, if he finally gets his act together at Coolmore Stud next spring.

Godolphin and Coolmore have been at loggerheads over the last few years, boycotting each other's stallions at the sales and sometimes getting publicly tetchy at the track. Next week's race continues their ongoing battle in both bloodstock and business.

Whatever the outcome, Coolmore will come out on top. If George prevails it will finally confirm him as a high class and versatile colt. If Authorized wins it adds to his - and his sire's - value as a stallion. His daddy is Montjeu, who is owned by Coolmore, naturally.