Henri Matisse Leads Home Wootton Bassett 1-2

Henri Matisse (3c Wootton Bassett – Immortal Verse, by Pivotal) strengthened his Classic credentials when leading home a 1-2 for Wootton Bassett in the Group 3 Red Rock Stakes at Leopardstown on Sunday.

The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt was having his first start of the season, having won the Grade 1 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf when last season, and previously won a pair of Group 2 races. He was sent off favourite in the seven-furlong contest and settled towards the back of the field under Ryan Moore.

The bay had plenty of ground to make up turning for home, but ran on well under Moore’s urgings to lead close home. He went on to win by half a length, while Comanche Brave (Wootton Bassett) finished strongly in second

Speaking after the race, O’Brien said: “He did well because it was a good gallop and he's going to improve fitness-wise. You would have to be happy with him.

“They went a good gallop and Ryan [Moore] said he'd definitely be more comfortable going up to a mile. He's obviously very smart and does quicken very well.”

The performance saw Henri Matisse shorten to 12/1 for the 2,000 Guineas. Owned by Coolmore partners with Merriebelle Farm, the Wootton Bassett colt is a half-brother to unbeaten Group 2 winner Statuette (Justify).