Tuesday 12 February 2019 13:24, UK
Sizing John will not bid to reclaim his Cheltenham Gold Cup crown next month, trainer Jessica Harrington has confirmed.
The 2017 Gold Cup winner has not run since Christmas that year, missing out on his title defence last season after being diagnosed with a pelvic injury a week before the race.
He has not been able to run this season either, with a proposed return at Leopardstown's Dublin Racing Festival being ruled out because of quick ground.
And Harrington confirmed on Tuesday that his already lengthy absence will now continue into next season.
Speaking on her Unibet blog, she said: "Unfortunately Sizing John has met with a setback and he will miss the remainder of this season.
"After routine exercise yesterday, I wasn't happy with him and our vet came down and examined him.
"He has confirmed to me that he has met with a setback, which means that he won't run at Cheltenham or Punchestown.
"His owners have been informed and, naturally, they are very disappointed, as is everyone at Commonstown.
"We will do what is best for him and we'll speak to our veterinary team over the coming weeks and months and we will keep everyone posted on his progress."
