Darley Buys Epsom Derby Winner Authorized

Sheikh Mohammed's Darley has bought Vodafone Epsom Derby (Eng-I) winner Authorized as a future stallion. The purchase comes on the heels of the international outfit buying the breeding rights in Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Street Sense, and the runner-up, Hard Spun.

Authorized, a son of Montjeu, has been leased back to current owners Saleh al Homaizi and Imad al Sagar. He will continue to be trained by Peter Chapple-Hyam and managed for the owners by Tony Nerses. Authorized's next goal is the Coral-Eclipse Stakes (Eng-I) July 7.

Bred in Ireland by Marengo Investments, Knighton House, and Michael Kinane, Authorized is the first foal from the Saumarez mare Funsie, whose dam is a half-sister to deceased major sire Green Dancer.

Authorized, who won the Epsom classic by five lengths, has won three of four races, including last year's Racing Post Trophy (Eng-I) and this year's Totesport.com Dante Stakes (Eng-II).

Darley, which plans to stand Street Sense and Hard Spun at Darley near Lexington, also stands stallions at several other farms, including Dalham Hall Stud near Newmarket, England, and Kildangan Farm in Ireland.