Casamento looks better bet for Derby than 2000 Guineas

Casamento has been confirmed as a definite runner in the 2000 Guineas, but punters may be best served staking their ante-post money on the horse winning the Derby instead.

The horse has won on three of his four career starts and the most notable of these was on his latest run in October when landing the Racing Post Trophy, where he had fellow 2000 Guineas contenders Native Khan and Dubawi Gold behind.

Since this Group One success, Casamento has now moved to the yard of Newmarket trainer Mahmood Al Zarooni, which is interesting given that the opening Classic of the season is run at the course.

These facts may make Casamento a solid each-way bet in the 2000 Guineas odds at 14/1 and he certainly has the credentials to run a big race with Frankie Dettori on board.

However, taking the 10/1 in the Derby betting may prove the better option, particularly as this price is likely to shorten if he runs well at Newmarket.

Although there is no doubt that the horse has speed, Godolphin do believe that Casamento may be better suited to the 1m4f of the Derby, rather than the 2000 Guineas, which is run over 1m.

This is despite the fact that Casamento has triumphed on both starts over 1m to date, with his solitary defeat coming over 7f on soft ground.

Godolphin manager Simon Crisford said: “They say the 2000 Guineas is arguably the best trial for Epsom, and we know it’s a fantastic Classic in its own right. We had considered the Dante at York, but on balance decided Newmarket would be more suitable.

“We’re very pleased with him and that’s why he’s going to run in the Guineas.”

A £30 stake on Casamento winning the Derby would return £300. New customers can sign up here for a free £30 bet.