Baaeed has to sit and wait before completing Ascot preparation in dynamic style

Baaeed showed the change of gear that is the mark of true champions in his final serious prep before the last race of his career in the Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot on Saturday – but the unbeaten superstar had to wait for a clear passage as he worked with two stablemates on the Al Bahathri Polytrack.

Shadwell Stud's Sheikha Hissa and her entourage were there to witness the son of Sea The Stars take another step towards the Qipco Champion Stakes and they were joined at second lot by William and Maureen Haggas and Shadwell assistant racing manager Richard Hills.

The brilliant four-year-old was asked to cover a mile behind Balmoral Handicap entries Montatham (ridden by Cieren Fallon) and Montassib (Stevie Donohoe). But Michael Hills, on board the ten-time winner, had nowhere to go at the six-furlong pole until a shout rang out to remind his companions of his presence.