JOE Osborne has accepted the job as chief executive of Godolphin on a permanent basis.

The Kildare man was installed as interim chief executive two weks ago following the sudden resignation of John Ferguson.

It is understood that at Royal Ascot this week Sheikh Mohammed asked Osborne to remain in the role and the offer was accepted.

Previously managing director of the Sheikh's Kildangan Stud in Monasterevin, Osborne is thought likely to remain based in Co Kildare but with frequent visits to Newmarket where Godolphin's two main trainers, Saeed Bin Suroor and Charlie Appleby, are based.

Godolphin has enjoyed a highly successful royal meeting so far, with three winners on Tuesday and two more on Thursday.

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