Star stayer Stradivarius wins second Gold Cup under imperious Dettori

Frankie Dettori completed a four-timer as Stradivarius ran out a brilliant winner of the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot for the second time.

Dettori sat handy on the John Gosden-trained Stradivarius throughout behind leaders Dee Ex Bee and Master Of Reality. The even-money favourite was briefly short of room as Capri kept Stradivarius in a pocket in the straight, but a gap appeared and Stradivarius displayed his class to exploit it, pulling clear of Dee Ex Bee and Master Of Reality.

It is a first four-timer at Royal Ascot for Dettori, who had earlier won on A'Ali, Sangarius and Star Catcher on Ladies' Day. Dettori rides Turgenev and Questionare in the last two races on the card.

Dettori said: “What an amazing horse he is. He got me out of trouble, he’s a horse for the big occasion and I love him dearly and the people love him.

Frankie Dettori celebrates after second Gold Cup win on StradivariusCredit: Bryn Lennon (Getty Images)

“I’m only nervous because the people care so much about this horse. It’s a wonderful story for Bjorn Nielsen, the stable and every time he runs, he delivers. It’s unbelievable."

The Italian jockey is threatening to go through the card of day three of Royal Ascot, sparking memories of his Magnificent Seven at the same course in September 1996.

On the possibility of a six-timer, Dettori added: "It’s a little bit of deja vu for 96. You never know.”

Paddy Power spokesman Paul Binfield said: “This is absolutely horrific and if Frankie’s next two mounts win, it’s the biggest pay out we’ve ever had.”

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