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Frankie Dettori’s final visit in search of an Italian 2000 Guineas paid off…

The Italian-born Frankie Dettori finally landed the Italian 2000 Guineas on Monday as he guided Vero Atleta to success at Campannelle.

The 52-year-old had finished runner-up in the Premio Parioli on four occasions but made no mistake this time around as Vero Atleta quickened up nicely before drawing away for a four-and-a-half-length victory.

It wasn't to be for Dettori in the fillies' equivalent as his mount, Aquila Reale, faded into third.

Speaking afterwards Dettori stated, "Finally after 35 years, and being second four times, I have finally done it,"

"I had one last go and I've got the full house now and I can retire happy.

"I had the pick of the race, and everyone wanted me to ride their horses. I picked the best three-year-old and he won in style, he was great.

"He was the champion two-year-old, and we had a lot of rain, and a mile was a bit on the short side. He will be a good candidate for the Italian Derby. He won in very good style, and it was a great day.

"It was a bit emotional, and everyone made a big fuss of me, and it is nice to be able to retire and say I have won the 2000, 1000, Derby and the Oaks. It was great to be able to come back to my homeland despite the weather being bad."

Attention will now turn closer to home as Dettori looks set to partner the Andrew Balding-trained Chaldean in the English 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on Saturday.

Dettori added, "I went to Chaldean at the weekend at Andrew Balding's and everything was fine".

Last season's Group 1 Dewhurst winner is currently a general 6/1 shot to provide Frankie Dettori with the first Classic of the season.