Bella Nipotina, last seen when she won the Doomben 10,000, faces an uncertain fate regarding her participation in Saturday’s Group 1 Kingsford Smith Cup.
Queensland stewards found her to be lame during Friday morning’s inspection, casting doubt on her ability to line-up for the race.
The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission confirmed the near fore-leg lameness of Bella Nipotina, who boasts nearly $10 million in prize money.
A further examination on Saturday morning will determine her eligibility for the $1 million event.
Despite her uncertain status, Bella Nipotina remains one of the main contenders in the eyes of Ladbrokes, rated at $6.50 to challenge the favourite, I Wish I Win ($3.90), should she make it to the starting line.
1. I Wish I Win (1)
J: Luke Nolen
T: Peter G Moody & Katherine Coleman
2. Think About It (8)
J: Blake Shinn
T: Joseph Pride
3. Tuvalu (3)
J: Tyler Schiller
T: Lindsey Smith
4. Uncommon James (11)
J: Billy Egan
T: S O’Dea & M Hoysted
5. Antino (12)
J: Vlad Duric
T: Tony Gollan
6. Cepheus (7)
J: Adam Hyeronimus
T: Matthew Dunn
7. Osipenko (5)
J: Tommy Berry
T: Chris Waller
8. Freedom Rally (10)
J: Tim Clark
T: Tony Gollan
9. Bella Nipotina (2)
J: Craig Williams
T: Ciaron Maher
10. In Secret (4)
J: Jamie Kah
T: James Cummings
11. Magic Time (9)
J: Michael Dee
T: Grahame Begg
12. Espiona (6)
J: Nash Rawiller
T: Chris Waller