Final straw for Fallon's backers

London: Kieren Fallon's 18-month riding ban worldwide for failing a drugs test has finally severed the link with his strongest backers, the Coolmore team of John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith, a formidable group, who had maintained their backing of the troubled jockey in his darkest hours.

For even the most patient of men there is a breaking point, and when Fallon received a second suspension for drugs abuse on Saturday by French authorities - he had previously been banned for six months in France on a similar charge and missed the first half of last year - it was the final straw.

Last night, a trusted Ballydoyle contact confirmed what most in racing had been anticipating.

"There will be no more backing for Fallon," he said, underlining the uncompromising nature of the split. Johnny Murtagh, who stepped in to take a starring role for Ballydoyle last season, is to adopt a similar position this year, although he already has a commitment to trainer Michael Halford, one of the Aga Khan's up-and-coming appointments.

Booking the best

Murtagh will continue to get first call. Seamus Heffernan, such a stalwart all year, will continue as back-up to Murtagh and may well find himself shouldering added responsibility in big races in Ireland when his colleague is unavailable. Otherwise, Aidan O'Brien is expected to continue his policy of booking the best available.

Fallon has already lodged an appeal and no dramatic statements are expected from his former employers while that is outstanding.