The G1 King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes sponsored by Betfair went to Germany the second year in succession after Danedream’s victory last year. The prestigious Flat race for all ages at Ascot, traditionally run over a mile and a half was won this year by Andreas Wohler trained Novellist. Jockey Johnny Murtagh, who is having a run of his lifetime at present, was astride this son of Monsun.

Novellist was settled well in fourth early while Ektihaam set a fast pace followed closely by Universal and Trading Leather. Ektiham weakened inside the last half mile and Universal moved forward to take it up with Trading Leather in tow. Novelist closed up on the pair in front 3 furlongs out and stormed clear in the final furlong to win in a new course record time. Trading Leather was the runner-up while Hillstar took the third spot ahead of Cirrus Des Aigles.

I was third choice, but it’s great to get on these horses. The trainer was very cool beforehand and he has done it all around the world. I just feel like I can win on anything at the moment," said jockey Johnny Murtagh for whom it was the fourth triumph in the race. "I loved the way when I asked him to stretch he wanted to get on with it," he added, "It was the way I dreamt about it last night, although I thought it was going to be more dramatic and a fighting finish. He didn’t feel like he was breaking the track record and I think he will go on and improve again.

"I used to come here as a kid and watch it as a kid in the school holidays and now I am here as a trainer. We knew he’d improved since his last race, but to do so as much as that, is unbelievable," said the trainer Wohler.