New rules set to stop no-hopers running in Group One races
The furore and controversy over the participation of rank outsider Diore Lia in this year's Investec Derby will be a thing of the past with the British Horseracing Authority set to introduce a minimum official rating to run at the top level.
The lowly-rated Diore Lia attracted plenty of negative press and attention ahead of her intended appearance at Epsom in June when a 500-1 shot for British racing's blue riband event.
An 11th hour injury ruled out the 52-rated filly on the morning of the race, much to the relief of many including former Champion jockey Ryan Moore who was vocal in his criticism of the decision to run a horse with very little chance of winning.
Rank outsider Diore Lia was only denied a place by injury at this year's Investec Derby
However, a repeat of that unwanted scenario won't be allowed to transpire under new guidelines which will come into force next year meaning no horse rated less than 80 will be able to run in Group races.
Ruth Quinn, director of international racing and racing development for the BHA, said: 'The question of whether the races that form the pinnacle of our sport should require a minimum standard of competitiveness from equine participants is one that has been discussed in the past, but without an agreement being reached.
'Thanks to the PJA (Professional Jockeys Association) putting it back on the agenda, a further proposal was already being considered by the Flat Pattern Committee before the issues surrounding this year's Derby put into clear focus the need for action to be taken.
'Introducing a minimum rating for these races has three clear benefits.
'Firstly, it will help protect the welfare of the human and equine participants in our major races by reducing the risk that comes with inferior horses competing against far superior opponents.
'Secondly, it will ensure that the risk of unsatisfactory results in these races is reduced by taking out the unknown factor and complications that can be caused in-running by an inferior horse.
'Finally, it will help preserve the reputation and public perception of our top races as crown-jewel events, ensuring the focus can remain on these races identifying and celebrating our sport's champions.
'An initial minimum rating of 80 for Flat Group One races has been agreed between the relevant parties, but the impact of this will be monitored and this bar could be raised in the future, if it is felt appropriate.' Similar changes have been made to Grade One races over jumps. A minimum rating of 130 will apply to all non-novice Grade One chases and hurdles and a minimum of 120 for Grade One novice chases. The proposal does not extend to Grade One novice hurdles, however.