Wootton Bassett’s Henri Matisse Wins French 2,000 Guineas

Ballydoyle’s red-hot form continued on Sunday when Henri Matisse (3c Wootton Bassett – Immortal Verse, by Pivotal) justified favouritism in the French 2,000 Guineas at Longchamp.

The stable’s three-year-olds had landed seven stakes races before Ryan Moore was legged up on Henri Matisse, and settled the Wootton Bassett colt towards the back of the 16-horse field. Quickening after turning for home, the bay began to run on strongly from three furlongs out and powered into the lead a furlong out. He kept on well to deny a later challenge Jonquil by a head, while Ballydoyle’s Camille Pissarro (Wootton Bassett) finished strongly in third.

“Ryan gave him a great ride,” O’Brien commented after the race. “He's a very good horse but he doesn't like getting to the front early, so Ryan gave him a class ride.

On future plans, the trainer said: “It's a very strong possibility he could go to the St James's Palace as he loves fast ground and quickens very well.”

Owned by Coolmore partners with Merriebelle Irish Farm, Henri Matisse has now won six of his eight starts, featuring two Group 1 wins, two Group 2 wins and a Group 3 win.