It was Dettori’s Day

After the recent press speculation that Frankie Dettori was losing his position as number one jockey for Godolphin, and was also considering retirement from race riding, the jockey put those rumours to bed in no uncertain fashion by winning the Ascot Gold Cup aboard Colour Vision.

To make matters even more satisfying he beat his Godolphin riding rival Mickael Barzalona, who was aboard the Godolphin-trained Opinion Poll, though a stewards’ enquiry was required to confirm the result. Frankie's winning leap in the Parade Ring was sky high.

“Sheikh Mohammed gave Frankie the choice of rides and he picked Colour Vision feeling he would stay better,” said Simon Crisford, racing manager to Godolphin. “He was proved right today.”

It was the second year in a row that Opinion Poll has finished second in the Ascot Gold Cup – his conqueror last year was Fame And Glory, who was sent off the 4/5 favourite for a repeat success.

“He has come back fine and seems fine after the race. It was an interesting race,” said trainer Aidan O’Brien.

“It was just not to be,” said jockey Jamie Spencer.