Golden Slipper blow: Star colt Eternal Warrior ruled out after ‘shattering’ injury

Golden Slipper hope Eternal Warrior is out.

Trainer Lloyd Kennewell described the news as shattering after the colt's action appeared different during work on Sunday.

The 2-year-old had previously won the Magic Millions Merson Cooper Stakes at Caulfield over 1000m

''Eternal Warrior arrived in Sydney in the last 48 hours in preparation for the 2026 TAB Golden Slipper,''  the statement said.

''After working the horse this morning his regular rider reported that he did not feel good or normal in his action. Upon further examination with our vet team, scans revealed the colt has significant changes to his suspensory branch.

''This is shattering for our loyal clients all the way through to our entire team that work and care for not only Eternal Warrior but all of our horses on a daily basis.

''In the coming days we will assess the extent of the damage and make sure that he gets the best treatment and rehab program possible in a bid to have him back racing in the not too distant future.''

Paradoxium is currently the $5 favourite for the Golden Slipper with Bet365, ahead of Warwoven [$7.50], and Central Europe and Stretan Ruler who are both at $9.