Moore clings on from Dettori as Baghdad lands back-to-back Royal Ascot wins

Ryan Moore, who could have enjoyed a fantastic Friday at Royal Ascot had favourites Ten Sovereigns and Hermosa struck, still ended day four of Flat racing's most fashional fixture with a double as Baghdad held on gamely in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes from the fast-finishing Ben Vrackie, whose red-hot jockey Frankie Dettori had looked like conjuring another magic moment at his favourite track.

Successful over the course and distance in the King George V Stakes last year, the likeable and consistent Baghdad went off the 7-2 favourite for the £90,000 event and forged clear inside the final furlong only to be given a scare by 7-1 chance Ben Vrackie, who started slowly and worked his way into position under the inspired Dettori, seeking his eighth winner of Royal Ascot 2019.

Fujaira Prince was third at 4-1 with Corgi fourth at 7-1.

ASCOT, ENGLAND - JUNE 21: Ryan Moore riding Baghdad looks on after winning The Duke of Edinburgh Stakes on day four of Royal Ascot at Ascot Racecourse on June 21, 2019 in Ascot, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse)Credit: Bryn Lennon (Getty Images)

Moore was riding his fifth winner of the week and second of the day after Japan's slick performance in the King Edward VII Stakes, while Baghdad's trainer Mark Johnston was doubling up after Raffle Prize won Wednesday's Queen Mary Stakes.

Johnston was relieved to have held on and said: "Oh I was worried in the finish, for sure I was worried. The form of Mr Dettori this week and he was coming fast.

"We had to go wide round the bend and I wouldn't have imagined Ryan was totally happy with his position, but he had to commit to make sure he got a clear run."

Johnston, who trains Baghdad for Mohammed Bin Hamad Khalifa Al Attiya, had suggested on Wednesday after Raffle Prize's win that Dettori was better than the legendary Lester Piggott, but he had kind words for Moore as well.

"I think Ryan's had a bit of an in and out time at this meeting and for a few weeks, so it's great and he rode a brilliant race," he added.