SIR ALEX STARTS LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Last updated : 18 November 2003 By editor

Ferguson's solicitors have issued legal proceedings against Irish racehorse owners JP McManus and John Magnier, who through their company Cubic Expression control 23.15 percent of United, claiming half-ownership of Group One record-breaker Rock of Gibraltar.

A statement from Coolmore Stud said:

"Coolmore Stud has today (Monday) been advised that legal proceedings have been issued against Mr John Magnier by Alex Ferguson alleging certain ownership rights for the stallion Rock of Gibraltar.”

"Coolmore Stud and John Magnier consider the action to be without merit and it will be vigorously defended. As this is a legal matter, no further comment will be made."

Ferguson alleges he was given a half-share of Rock of Gibraltar as a gift by Magnier and wants half the stud fees, which could be worth between 50 million pounds ($84.47 million) and 150 million pounds, said the Daily Mail and Daily Mirror newspapers.