King George hero will not contest the Preis von Europa on Sunday.
Four-year-old Goliath, who captured headlines with his stunning 25-1 win in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot in July, has been ruled out of Sunday’s Group One Preis von Europa at Cologne due to a minor foot abscess. Goliath, now owned in part by prominent American investor John Stewart after purchasing a significant stake from Philip Baron von Ullmann, had been aiming for a return to the track ahead of a planned bid for the Japan Cup.
Since geldings are ineligible to compete in the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Goliath's connections had focused on the German target as a key stepping stone. A rematch with King George's third-placer, Rebel's Romance, was highly anticipated, but on Thursday morning, the son of Adlerflug was notably absent from the six-horse field.
Philip Baron von Ullmann explained to GaloppOnline that the decision was made after trainer Francis-Henri Graffard discovered a minor foot abscess following Goliath’s final workout. While not a long-term concern, the team prioritized the horse’s welfare, opting to withdraw Goliath from the race rather than risk further discomfort. Von Ullmann added that Stewart had been planning to travel from the United States to watch the race in person but accepted that "this is horse racing."
Looking ahead, Goliath’s next target remains the Japan Cup, though the team will now reassess their plans following the setback.
With Goliath out, Charlie Appleby’s Rebel’s Romance now stands as the leading contender in Sunday’s Group One race. Joining him in the lineup are German Derby winner Palladium, Jessica Harrington’s Trevaunance, along with Lordano, Straight, and Erle.
