Aidan O'Brien reflects on Meydan and Dubai World Cup night

Last Updated: 30/03/14 4:43pm

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Aidan O'Brien: Reflects on the action from Meydan

Aidan O'Brien: Reflects on the action from Meydan

Last year's Investec Derby hero was among the leading contenders for the world's richest race, but making his debut on an artificial track, came home 13th of the 16 runners in the hands of the trainer's son, Joseph.Aidan O'Brien feels Ruler Of The World's failure to act on the Tapeta surface was to blame for his disappointing display in Saturday's Dubai World Cup.

Speaking at Leopardstown on Sunday, the Ballydoyle handler said: "We didn't know whether he would handle the surface and it looks like he probably didn't.

"Joseph said he was grand until he came off the bridle and then he was all at sea."

Each of O'Brien's six runners on World Cup night failed to finish in the frame, although both Giovanni Boldini and Magician ran with credit.

Giovanni Boldini came home well to grab fourth in the UAE Derby, while last year's Breeders' Cup Turf winner Magician encountered traffic problems on his way to finishing sixth, beaten three lengths, in the Sheema Classic.

"Ryan (Moore) was delighted with Giovanni Boldini. In an ideal world he wouldn't have wanted to be so far back, but it's just the way it worked out on the first bend," said O'Brien.

"He ran a very good race, he definitely gets a mile, but I'm not sure if he'd get further. He'll probably go for one of the Guineas.

"Magician ran well. It was a bit messy on the first bend, we were always going to drop him out, though. Joseph said he gave a blow two furlongs out and he didn't get a lot of help in the straight.

"He ran well, we're happy with him and we might train him for the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot. He could run before that, as long as the ground is OK - he wouldn't run on bad ground."