A LEADING Irish stud farm is believed to have acquired the breeding rights to Irish 2000 Guineas winner Siskin.

It was confirmed by Juddmonte Farms on Monday that the breeding rights to the son of First Defence have been sold to an undisclosed group. Though no further details were given, The Irish Field understands that Siskin is very likely to stand in Ireland.

Having rounded off an unbeaten juvenile campaign with a Group 1 victory in the Phoenix Stakes last August, the Ger Lyons-trained colt was a hot favourite for last Friday’s classic at the Curragh and ran out an impressive winner in the hands of Colin Keane.

While owner Khalid Abdullah traditionally breeds from his own stallions through his Juddmonte Farms operation, Siskin will not be joining the likes of Frankel, Oasis Dream and Kingman after the curtain comes down on his racing career.

Grimthorpe told Sky Sports Racing: “He’s come out of the race very well. Ger was obviously delighted with his performance, as was Prince Khalid.

“There have been various rumours and talks, so to confirm, breeding rights have been sold to him to a group of breeders. Confidentiality says I can’t say any further. He will continue to race in the colours and name of Prince Khalid for his racing career.

“It would be (a unique situation) – I’d say it’s probably a first (for Khalid Abdullah). There’s a business to be run and when the offer was made, it was considered satisfactory and we took it from there. Prince Khalid has sold horses before and I’m sure he will do again.”

The Sussex Stakes at Goodwood is likely to be Siskin’s next port of call after connections ruled out a quick turnaround for Saturday’s St James’s Place Stakes at Royal Ascot.

“Royal Ascot is obviously a bit too soon – the St James’s is eight days after the Irish Guineas,” Grimthorpe added.

“That leaves the option of the Sussex Stakes, provided Prince Khalid was happy. I think we’d look towards Goodwood, certainly.”

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