One of the most expensive horses at last years yearling sales has failed to fire on debut at Randwick on Saturday.
Nations League the second foal of imported US juvenile stakes winner Fashion Faux Pas (USA) proved a major highlight at the sales, with the Snitzel colt knocked down to MV Magnier for $1.7 million.
Sent out as a $13 chance with betting sites, Nations League sat at the rear of the field throughout the 1100m race and was only able to beat one horse home. By Choice a filly by Written By who was purchased for $220,000 won the 2YO event impressively at her racing debut.
When purchased Magnier said the colt reminded him of Group 1 VRC Coolmore Stud Stakes winner Switzerland, another Snitzel from a US-bred mare who is trained by Chris Waller — a path the latest purchase will also follow.
“Very happy to get that horse and the Snitzel’s have worked very well for us,” Magnier said. “All the team liked him and Newgate know how to breed a good horse.
“This horse will be trained by Chris Waller. Chris thought that he could be a horse along the lines of Switzerland — very athletic, plenty of scope.