Epsom Derby hero Masar will drop back in distance for next month’s Coral-Eclipse at Sandown rather than bid for a Classic double in the Irish Derby at the Curragh.

Trainer Charlie Appleby has confirmed the Godolphin colt will drop back to 10 furlongs for the Group One on July 7, with the son of New Approach already having won at the Esher track as a juvenile.

He will, however, need to be supplemented for the Sandown race.

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and I discussed Masar’s programme at length and have reached the conclusion that the Eclipse will suit him best,” Appleby said.

“We will leave him in the Irish Derby, just to keep all options open. But the intention is to run in the Eclipse.

“Masar has won at Sandown (the Solario Stakes), showing that he acts well on the track and dropping back in trip will be no problem – he won the Craven Stakes and finished third in the 2000 Guineas. He’s got plenty of speed.”