Kentucky Derby favourite Forte has been pulled out of the showpiece race at Churchill Downs.
Estimates claimed around 16% of money was backed on Forte to win the 149th running of the historic race. But he was scratched on Saturday morning, along with four other horses in the build-up to the race leaving 18 runners remaining after a week which has seen four horses separately die.
Owner Mike Repole and trainer Todd Pletcher were seen in deep discussions with the state racing commission before a decision was made on Forte's fate. The horse was seen taking a jog for the state vet whilst connections watched on before the decision to scratch the favourite was made at around 9am ET. The race is due to begin at 6:45pm ET (2:45pm BST).
