Warning over Derby team tactics

Epsom's stewards will brief Aidan O'Brien and the eight jockeys partnering his octet of Derby runners on Saturday about the rules regarding the use of team tactics.

They will explain that any attempt to employ unfair means of stopping another runner will be the subject of severe penalties under Rule H (i). These could involve a 14-day suspension.

Paul Struthers of the Horseracing Regulatory Authority said on Thursday night; "Whenever there are a number of entries for the same owner or trainer, riders are reminded, as a matter of course, of their responsibilities under our instructions. Pacemakers and team tactics come under this rule."

This will reassure Frankie Dettori, who rides favourite Authorized for whom many see interference as the only danger.

He returned from injury at Sandown on Thursday night and dismissed fears of team tactics being employed by the Ballydoyle eight, saying: "I've only got my tactics to worry about."

Authorized's odds eased from 4-5 to 5-6 with Coral as punters digested the fact that there will be 19 runners. He is evens on Betfair. Coral offer 11-4 Authorized to win by two lengths or less and 5-2 by more than two lengths.