Scandinavia will not participate in the Melbourne Cup: trainers have reported the withdrawal of the favorite.

According to The Sun: The star of Aidan O'Brien's stable and St Leger champion, Scandinavia, will not participate in the prestigious Melbourne Cup race for 5 million pounds sterling, reports the press.

The head of the Ballydoyle stable had previously promised that he wouldn't be sending horses to Australia again since the horse 'looked good' but Yann Brueghel failed veterinary tests last year.

However, Scandinavia's rapid success has caused the Coolmore team to rethink their plans.

O'Brien noted that the 'race that stops a nation' was seriously considered for the Goodwood Cup winner, as well as for his other horses from Ballydoyle - Mount Kilimanjaro and Aftermath.

However, according to the podcast The Verdict with Michael Felgate, Scandinavia, who was among the favorites for this important race on November 4, has now officially been withdrawn from the list of participants.

O'Brien has yet to comment on the horse's future, but Felgate noted in the podcast:

“Aidan O'Brien horses in the Melbourne Cup - no Scandinavia coming out.”

He also remarked that many believed that the mention of Scandinavia's participation was merely an attempt to increase its market value.

“There is a real attempt to bring him here. The veterinary protocol has been initiated and is ongoing for Scandinavia.”

Felgate expressed concerns about potential new issues similar to those that arose with Yann Brueghel but emphasized that it still remains in the realm of speculation:

“It’s unknown if there were any issues with Scandinavia. Will we see him racing in Europe further on? He is undoubtedly world-class.”

Last year, O'Brien was 'stunned' when Yann Brueghel was unable to start in the race at Flemington, where Racing Victoria judges issued a statement noting that the St Leger winner was at an increased risk of injury. He deemed such a decision 'absurd' as Coolmore veterinarians in Australia confirmed that the horse was in good condition.

Coolmore Australia's manager, Tom Magnier, said:

“We learned that Yann Brueghel will not participate in the Melbourne Cup this year.”

The Coolmore team had high hopes for Scandinavia's performance, but the horse's health proved to be a priority.

Scandinavia's withdrawal from the Melbourne Cup marks significant changes in Ballydoyle's plans. Attention will now focus on other horses that may deliver results in important races, as the health and safety of the horses always remain paramount in this field.