Ryan named as rider for Constitution Hill’s San Siro engagement
Nicky Henderson has confirmed that Rossa Ryan will partner Constitution Hill in Sunday’s Gran Premio del Jockey Club at San Siro, with the seven‑year‑old set to make the trip to Milan for the Group 2 contest.
The decision represents a late change to previous plans. Rossa Ryan, who was in Milan last weekend, was contacted by Henderson in recent days and called up to take the ride. Ryan has not previously ridden Constitution Hill.
Backup option retained at Newbury
Connections have maintained a contingency plan at Newbury, where Constitution Hill had been entered for Saturday’s Group 3 St Simon Stakes. That entry is now a reserve option as all indications point to the San Siro engagement going ahead.
The race in Italy offers a different test from the British programme, and the move underlines Henderson’s willingness to seek a suitable target abroad for his high‑profile horse.
Ground and course considerations
Weather forecasts for Milan have influenced the decision to run at San Siro rather than take the alternative route. Heavy rain has been expected in the area ahead of the weekend, and the prospect of soft ground is one factor that has been taken into account when finalising plans.
San Siro presents a distinct track configuration compared with many British courses and the crew travelling with Constitution Hill have been attentive to how the ground and layout might suit the horse. Team members involved with the preparation have signalled that the softer conditions could be to Constitution Hill’s liking.
Context and recent form
Constitution Hill is best known for his National Hunt achievements, including success in the 2023 Champion Hurdle, and also recorded a win on the Flat earlier this year. This campaign highlights the continued interest in exploring a range of opportunities for the horse across different spheres of racing.
Rossa Ryan’s appointment to ride at San Siro adds another experienced jockey to the operation for the trip to Italy. Oisin Murphy had been mentioned as a potential partner, but the last‑minute change has seen Ryan stepped in to take the mount.
What to expect on the day
- Constitution Hill will contest the Gran Premio del Jockey Club at San Siro on Sunday.
- Rossa Ryan will be in the saddle; he has not previously ridden Constitution Hill.
- The St Simon Stakes entry at Newbury remains a secondary option should plans change.
- Rain and the likelihood of soft ground have been influential factors in selecting the Milan target.
The trip to Milan represents a notable international assignment for one of the most high‑profile horses in training in Britain, and attention will turn to the San Siro on Sunday as connections see how Constitution Hill handles the conditions and course on the day.
This article may have been prepared in whole or in part with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
