Derby fever maybe be behind closed doors , but it will be still a great renewal Andrew Nelis

The build-up to the 241st running of the Investec Derby has been one quite like never before.

The coronavirus pandemic led to original entries, dating back to the end of 2018 when 356 yearling were entered, being scrapped, while traditional key trials such as the Dante and Chester Vase have not taken place.

Sandown’s Classic Trial was run, but at Kempton, while Lingfield’s Derby Trial also survived, but with runners from Ireland and further afield barred from taking part.

Races at Royal Ascot, usually staged a fortnight or so after the Derby, took place a fortnight before, presenting themselves as unusual stepping stones towards potential Classic stardom.

The Irish Derby took place over the weekend, the first time it had been staged before its Epsom counterpart, and on the big day itself jockeys will be able to warm-up by riding in the Investec Oaks. It will be the first time the Oaks and Derby have been run on the same day, and possibly the first time two British Classics have been run in the space of just over an hour.

Some things do not change. Aidan O’Brien is seeking a record eighth win in the race and again promises to have multiple runners, even if his final team will not match the eight challengers he fielded in 2007..

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Fury to contest the St Ledger Doncaster Andrew Nelis

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