Auguste Rodin has won the 2023 Epsom Derby for trainer Aidan O'Brien after a stunning finale to the historic race.
King Of Steel, a 66-1 outsider had taken over on the final straight but 9-2 shot Auguste Rodin fought back at the last to claim victory for jockey Ryan Moore and a ninth success in the Derby for O'Brien.
White Birch claimed third after coming from a long way back but there was to be no fitting finale for Frankie Dettori, who had gone into the race as favourite on Arrest but finished 10th.
The race had been under threat from Animal Rights activists but Surrey Police confirmed on Saturday morning that 19 arrests had been made for plans for disruption. One protestor did manage to avoid a heavy police presence to make his way onto the track shortly after it had began but was immediately tackled to the ground.
Auguste Rodin had gone off as favourite in last month's 2000 Guineas but disappointed, only to bounce back to his best at Epsom.
On the historic win, O'Brien said: "It is great credit to everyone, there are so many people responsible for this happening. He is a total home-bred horse.
"He came with a massive reputation and he is totally unique. Ryan admitted he probably didn't suit him but he is so exciting for us."
"Newmarket was one of those days when it all went wrong. The lads always had the plan to do the Triple Crown but he came out of the Guineas well and we've been more and more confident with every day."
Jockey Ryan Moore said after the race: “We had a smooth run and landed in a nice spot and I was always confident I had them covered. They didn’t op that quick and turned into a bit of a dash. He’s the only man that could get him there. Aidan can do things [others can’t]. We’ve always had a lot of belief in him.”
Epsom Derby 2023 result
1st - Auguste Rodin - 9-2
2nd - King Of Steel - 66-1
3rd - White Birch - 12-1
4th - Sprewell - 14-1
5th - The Foxes - 7-1
6th - Waipiro - 25-1
7th - Artistic Star - 22-1
8th - Adelaide River - 33-1
9th - Dubai Mile - 25-1
10th - Arrest - 4-1 F
11th - San Antonio - 18-1
12th - Passenger - 8-1
13th - Dear My Friend - 100-1
14th - Military Order - 9-2
