Constitution Hill's run of bad luck continues ahead of Fighting Fifth

Henderson reports the 2023 Champion Hurdle winner is “currently lame” with an as-yet undiagnosed issue and his return at Newcastle might now be delayed even further.

Constitution Hill missed his Cheltenham title defence in March after suffering a respiratory infection and then had a spell in a veterinary hospital due to a suspected bout of colic.

The seven-year-old underwent a wind operation during the summer break and hopes were high for a big return next Saturday even after a lacklustre racecourse gallop at Newbury earlier this week.

In a post on X, Henderson said: “I’m afraid I have to report that we have a problem with Constitution Hill, he is currently lame. This wasn’t immediately apparent after his gallop at Newbury on Tuesday but for the last 48 hours he has been sore.

“For what reason, we are currently unaware and investigating. This, as I’m sure everybody will appreciate, is a tragic problem for us but we have to report where we are.

“He is still under investigation, we are trying to find the reason for it, which is not apparent. We will keep everybody posted, but at this stage I’d have to say he is unlikely to make next Saturday at Newcastle.

“I have to confirm to everybody that this is not a retirement call, he is not (being retired). He was bright and breezy after his gallop but we have this issue.”

Constitution Hill's stablemate Sir Gino is now the Fighting Fifth favourite.