Classic Empire with Norm Casse at Pimlico prior to the Preakness

Champion Classic Empire, who likely would've been the morning line favorite for the G1 Belmont Stakes, will be forced to miss the race due to an abscess in his right front foot.

The BloodHorse reported the news Wednesday morning via Twitter:

Champion Classic Empire will not run in Belmont Stakes due to abscess in right front, Mark Casse says. (Cont) — Alicia Wincze Hughes (@BH_AHughes) June 7, 2017

It's unfortunate but we still have a lot of big races to look forward to https://t.co/NvEyfxJxKf — Norman W Casse (@casseracingnc) June 7, 2017

The foot abscess is same that plagued Classic Empire after the Holy Bull. “This morning his foot is bugging him again,”Casse said — Alicia Wincze Hughes (@BH_AHughes) June 7, 2017

Added Casse “When we came in this AM, he couldn't hardly get around. In an hour it could bust and he'd be fine but we wouldn't to do that.” — Alicia Wincze Hughes (@BH_AHughes) June 7, 2017

Trainer Mark Casse indicated that Classic Empire would instead be pointed to the G1 Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park.

Learn more about hoof abscesses here.

This is a developing story, more information will be posted as it becomes available….

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