Toronado will next year stand at the National Stud in Newmarket.
Last Updated: 22/09/14 7:26pm
Toronado will next year stand at the National Stud in Newmarket.
The Richard Hannon-trained colt has played a big part in the emergence of owner Sheikh Joaan Al Thani's Al Shaqab Racing operation, but his racing career will soon come to an end.
Toronado has won six races from 11 starts, including Group One victories in the 2013 Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood and in this season's Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.
A close second behind Charm Spirit on his last start in the Prix du Moulin on September 14, the four-year-old son of High Chaparral might still run in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Champions Day on October 18.
Connections said last week that the Breeders' Cup Mile was also a possible objective, while he might yet be supplemented for the Champion Stakes at Ascot.
Ben Sangster, chairman of the National Stud, said in a statement: "Myself and the senior steward, Roger Weatherby, are thrilled that such a high-class horse will be retiring for the 2015 season to the National Stud, and are most grateful to His Excellency Sheikh Joaan for his wonderful gesture to support the British breeding industry.
"This is such a tremendous opportunity for breeders, who I'm sure will be keen to send high-quality mares to this very special horse".
John Warren, who will be managing the horse on Sheikh Joaan's behalf, said: "Looking closely at both Toronado's pedigree and conformation, he is hugely exciting.
"Being by the international leading sire High Chaparral out of a mare from the Gone West line he looks perfect for a wide range of mares, including those that descend from the Danzig line.
"Having the powerful build of a very fast horse and being a group winning unbeaten two-year-old, Toronado will really appeal to the commercial market.
"As a European champion miler he will also be important to owner breeders who are aiming to breed a Classic prospect."
His stallion fee will be announced in due course.