From hero to no-go, Accidental Agent disgraces himself on Ascot return

This was no accident.

For reasons only he knows, Accidental Agent, the popular hero of 12 months ago, decided to stand completely still when the stalls opened for the Queen Anne Stakes.

To then make matters worse for his stunned connections, Lord Glitters, the horse he beat into second last year, this time went one better.

As the field for Royal Ascot's opening race galloped away from the starting stalls, television pictures showed rider Charlie Bishop repeatedly digging his mount with a left foot that in no way persuaded the five-year-old entire to move. That he showed plenty of enthusiasm when he eventually did consent to gallop was, in the circumstances, little consolation.

"That was very out of character," said Bishop. "He felt fantastic going down and fantastic coming back but the gates opened and he stood there."

He also stood in the unsaddling enclosure, looking like butter wouldn't melt in his mouth.

"I have no idea whatsoever," said trainer Eve Johnson Houghton, whose stable star had last year provided her with a first Group 1 triumph.

"It wasn't even as if he jumped out late. He just stood there. He even had to be led out of the stalls. Then when he did come out he went like a dream. I have no idea. That is our form as well. We would have won that."

Then, with a sigh, she added: "He'll be all right, though. It is what it is. It's so frustrating but s*** happens."

Did you know you can bet via the Racing Post mobile app/website? Simply sign in with your favourite bookmaker via the Accounts button and then bet direct from our racecards