The British Horseracing Authority has instructed a vet to examine Altior and reminded trainer Nicky Henderson of his responsibilities regarding non-runners.
Horse racing’s regulators revealed on Wednesday evening that the two-time Champion Chase winner still holds an entry for Saturday’s Unibet Silviniaco Conti Chase.
The clarification came a day after Henderson said Altior would not be taking up the engagement, as he ‘didn’t look himself.’
The news was announced via the race sponsors, a firm the trainer is an ambassador for.
A BHA spokesman said: “The BHA can confirm that Altior continues to hold his entry for the Unibet Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton Park on Saturday.
(Image: PA)
“As a result of this, the BHA has, in the first instance, spoken with Mr Henderson and reminded him of his obligation under the rules to immediately scratch a horse if, at any time between closing and the deadline for declarations, the trainer becomes aware that the horse is not going to run.
“The BHA has also arranged for a BHA veterinary surgeon to examine the horse tomorrow.
“In the interests of fairness and transparency for racing fans and the betting public, it is for Mr Henderson to clarify his plans publicly as soon as he can.
“The BHA will monitor the situation but we won’t comment on wider issues or any potential rule breaches at this point.”
Concerns over Altior’s participation arose on Tuesday morning, when he drifted in the betting market as his stablemate Top Notch attracted support.
(Image: Getty Images)
Henderson said the new plan was to send his stable star to Newbury’s Game Spirit Chase on February 8 before trying for a third consecutive Champion Chase at The Festival.
Earlier in the season connections suggested he may race over longer trips, but those plans were aborted after one attempt.
