Godolphin homebred Ancient Truth, a group 2 winner who had been as short as 8-1 for the Two Thousand Guineas (G1), has been ruled out of the May 3 Newmarket classic by his owner following a setback.
The son of Dubawi won his first three starts for Charlie Appleby, justifying favoritism in two novice contests before landing the Superlative Stakes (G2) in July. Following a 91-day break, Ancient Truth was then stepped up in grade for the Dewhurst Stakes (G1) in October, when he earned a placing but missed out by half a length behind Expanded and winning stablemate Shadow Of Light.
In a statement on X, Godolphin said: "Ancient Truth will no longer be aimed at the 2,000 Guineas due to a setback. He'll be kept under veterinary supervision and a plan will be made for him for later in the season."
The market for the season's first classic is headed by the Aidan O'Brien-trained Twain, who is as short as 5-1 with at least one bookmaker, and is followed by Shadow Of Light, who has shortened to 13-2, and Expanded at 7-1.
Long-time early favorite The Lion In Winter is not a certain runner, according to O'Brien, and his Guineas participation hinges on his progress in the coming weeks. Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G1T) winner Henri Matisse was cut to 12-1 March 30 after he swooped late to land a group 3 prep at Leopardstown.
