Two-time Group 1 champion Zoustar has been retired from racing after sustaining a suspensory ligament injury in preparation for a tilt at the major Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Britain’s Royal Ascot.

A standout performer over the 2013 Australian spring, Zoustar has been confirmed to take up a breeding career and stand as sire at Widden Stud; something that part-owner Antony Thompson revealed had always been the plan following Zoustar’s England tenure.

“It is devastating that we won’t get to showcase him to the northern hemisphere and show what a talent he is” Thompson told TVN.

“While he might not have reached the heights we would have like in Sydney during the autumn, there was a lot of confidence that he was really thriving in England; Chris was getting quite excited about him looking ahead to Royal Ascot.”

Trainer Chris Waller is understandably disappointed by Zoustar’s retirement, highlighting the three-year-old as a real chance to deliver success in his maiden tilt at Royal Ascot.

“A minor problem was detected with the horse following his first serious pace work and scans overnight revealed he has a very small strain to a lateral aspect of the proximal suspensory ligament and as a result his work load needs to be reduced as well as being given time off for the area to rest and recover” Waller said.

“It is extremely disappointing that we are not able to compete at Ascot and the owners and I are devastated by this. The horse has travelled extremely well to England and for me personally it was the start of what would have been the experience of a lifetime.

“The big positive I can take out of all of this is the fact I have been fortunate enough to be involved with an exceptionally talented racehorse and win two Group 1 races.

“His ability, attitude and physical attributes as well as his gentlemanly temperament make him a tremendously special horse to me.”

Upon his return to Australia, Zoustar will stand at Widden Stud for an impressive service fee of $44,000.