British racing is having to accustom itself to life without its biggest drawcard. Frankie Dettori was absent from Eclipse day, just as he has been many times this summer. Last week, it was Turkey that drew him, this time France and Germany. His schedule is now that of a midweek dilettante and a weekend wandering minstrel, encouraging speculation he may be preparing for retirement.

Other than four rides at Sandown on Friday, Dettori has taken one mount in 15 days in his adopted homeland, where his winners tally stands at a mere 19. That only nine have come for Godolphin crystallises the lean times being endured by his Arab employers.

Things have perked up a little. Kirklees won a listed race at Sandown and Dettori then rode Donativum, a Breeders' Cup winner last autumn, to victory at Deauville. Last week, too, Sheikh Mohammed's chequebook was in regular use as he purchased Evasive and Delegator from British stables and Jealous Again from the American trailblazer, Wesley Ward.

There is plenty for Dettori to anticipate. But he will be 40 next year and has nothing left to prove. From the present signs, you have to wonder if he still has the appetite.