Stradivarius seals perfect year with Cup domination

Stradivarius capped a magnificent season when coming out on top in a dramatic race for the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot.

Winner of the newly-inaugurated Stayers’ Million after four victories throughout 2018, Stradivarius completed a five-timer to confirm his status as the undisputed staying king.

In the process, he became only the second horse to win five QIPCO British Champions Series in a season. The other? None other than the mighty Frankel in 2012.

It was hard work, though, as he had to be brave to go through a gap for Frankie Dettori on the inside turning for home, which had been left by the pace-setting Flag Of Honour.

After seeing that horse off, Stradivarius appeared to leave Thomas Hobson a little short of room when Willie Mullins’ charge tried to sneak up the far rail in the final furlong.

However, Stradivarius (even-money favourite) would not be denied and the John Gosden-trained four-year-old crossed the line a length and a half to the good from the Irish raider.

Dettori said: “I had half a chance and took it, but you can only do that when you have plenty of horse.

“He’s been a model of consistency and owns the crown of being champion stayer – you can’t take it away from him.

“He’s all heart, this horse.”