The 145th Kentucky Derby proved one of the most dramatic in its history when the favourite Maximum Security who had made virtually all the running and fought off all challenges in the stretch to win going away by over two lengths, was sensationally disqualified for causing interference when he veered out on the final turn.

The Bill Mott-trained outsider 65/1 Country House, ridden by Flavien Plat, was awarded the race. Code Of Honor was moved up to second and the more fancied Mott runner, Tacitus, placed third.

The inquiry took over 15 minutes with both connections waiting anxiously on track as stewards looked repeatedly at all the angles on the bend, pictures also screened on live TV.

Maximium Security's rider Luis Saez, said his mount had been frightened by the crowd, and moved out three horse widths, causing interference to War Of Will and Long Range Toddy who was just behind him and outsider Bodexpress. Straightened up, he fought of Country House on his outside and Code of Honor on the inside.

Country House's rider Flavien Plat objected and in a strict application of the rules, the stewards eventually disqualified the Jason Servis-trained winner who had maintained his unbeaten record.

Maximum Security - taken down to last place

Maximum Security was moved all the way back to 17th. He had stopped the clock in 2:03.95 over the sloppy going.

His owner Gary West and trainer Jason Servis has said they will use every means to appeal the disqualification.

“It’s a bitter sweet victory but I have to say our horse ran very well, our jockey rode very well.

“It feels pretty darn good. It was an odd way to do it,” Mott told NBC Sports.

“It’s a bitter sweet victory but I have to say our horse ran very well, our jockey rode very well.

“I’m thrilled to death for all the connections and I think they are very deserving. We’ll just have to prove ourselves in the future.”

Prat said: “I’m kind of speechless right now. It’s a weird feeling, but it’s a good one,” said Prat.

“No-one can describe that. It’s amazing. I lost my momentum round the turn. I thought I was going to win and it kind of cost me."

Country House was most recently third in the Grade I Arkansas Derby behind scratched favourite Omaha Beach, he is a son of Lookin At Lucky and had only one previous win to his name in six outings.

Country House's trainer Bill Mott

The winner is owned by Mrs JV Shields, Jr., EJM McFadden, Jr & LNJ Foxwoods. B-J Shields Jr

The attendance was 150,729 at Churchill Downs.