Hooking to break new ground for owner Antoine Griezmann

Star footballer Antoine Griezmann is set for a first British runner at Newcastle on Friday as Hooking lines up in the BetUK All-Weather Easter Classic Middle Distance Handicap.

The eight-year-old has blossomed in the last couple of seasons and he will arrive at Gosforth Park on the back of two wins at Listed level at Cagnes-Sur-Mer in France.

Not only will he be Griezmann’s first runner as an owner in the UK, he will also be the first for trainer Philippe Decouz. Griezmann, who became one of the most expensive football transfers of all time when he left Athletico Madrid to join Barcelona for €120 million in 2019 before moving back to Madrid, took his first steps into ownership with Hooking in 2017 and has stayed for the full journey.

“Hooking is in top form,” said Decouz.“ The race at Newcastle was a logical choice following his winter program. He doesn’t go on heavy ground and so there is not a race for him in France at the moment. This race at Newcastle is a handicap and the timing is perfect.“

His preparation has gone smoothly and he will be running on his preferred surface and distance. We are hoping there will be pace in the race.“ This is a first runner in the UK for his owner Antoine Griezmann and also for me. It is a great challenge.”