Racing: Holy Roman Emperor heads Guineas betting

The blow to Kieren Fallon of being banned from riding in Chicago was softened yesterday by a victory on Holy Roman Emperor in the Independent Waterford Wedgwood Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh that promoted the colt to 6-1 favouritism for the 2,000 Guineas.

It was an eighth win in the race for Aidan O'Brien, who intends taking the unusual route for a Classic hope of running the colt again next week. "He'll go to the Prix Morny next weekend," the trainer said. "He just wants to race and racing brings out the best in him."

Fallon also won the Phoenix Sprint Stakes on the David Nicholls-trained Moss Vale, who goes next for York's Nunthorpe Stakes.