Dawn Approach: Epsom Derby place for 2000 Guineas winner

The unbeaten 2000 Guineas winner Dawn Approach has been confirmed for the Epsom Derby on Saturday 1 June.

His participation was decided following talks between Sheikh Mohammed and trainer Jim Bolger, the co-owners, after the five-length victory in the year's first Classic on Saturday.

"Dawn Approach has come out of the Guineas in excellent shape. I couldn't be more pleased with him," said Bolger.

Bookmakers currently have him as the 7-4 favourite for the Epsom race.

The colt will now bid to emulate his sire, New Approach, who claimed the Derby five years ago.

Racing manager Simon Crisford told the Godolphin website: "It has been agreed that Dawn Approach should run in the Investec Derby on 1 June.

"His temperament and demeanour are excellent and he relaxes in his races which means he has a better chance of seeing out the mile and a half."

Sheikh Mohammed watched Dawn Approach's win on Saturday in his first appearance at a British racecourse since the drugs scandal surrounding his former trainer Mahmood Al Zarooni broke.

Al Zarooni was part of the Dubai ruler's world-leading Godolphin operation but was banned for eight years last month for administering anabolic steroids to 15 horses in his care at the Moulton Paddocks stable in Newmarket.