Denis Hogan says Sceptical will swerve Tuesday's King's Stand Stakes in favour of the Diamond Jubilee at Royal Ascot.
The four-year-old returned to action with a three-length victory over Southern Horse at Naas on Monday and was expected to head to Ascot for the King Stand Stakes on Tuesday.
Many expected Sceptical to be the biggest challenger to the Charles Hill-trained Battaash, however, connections feel a tilt at the Diamond Jubilee is a better option.
Hogan tweeted on Friday morning: “After discussing with @RacingHilltop [Twitter page for owner James McAuley] and jockeys, weighing up all options, we have decided in the best interest and welfare of the horse ? and considering long season ahead ? to skip the King's Stand in favour of the Diamond Jubilee on Saturday allowing him five extra days.”
Sceptical has immediately been installed as the market favourite as he seeks a fifth successive victory.
