MERCHANT Navy came out on top in a thrilling climax to a dramatic renewal of the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Having proved his capabilities at the very highest level in Australia, the three-year-old joined Aidan O'Brien earlier this year with a view to having a crack at this six-furlong feature and the plan came perfectly to fruition.

The son of Fastnet Rock had made a winning Irish debut in last month's Greenlands Stakes at the Curragh and was guided in his big-race assignment by Ryan Moore.

There was drama at the very start, with 5/2 favourite Harry Angel playing up before the stalls opened and completely missing the break. He was under pressure from an early stage and ultimately failed to get competitive. He has since been found to have sustained an injury.

Australian speedball Redkirk Warrior was disappointing, but American challenger Bound For Nowhere led for a long way. Then, with his tongue lolling out, Merchant Navy (4/1) drew alongside entering the final furlong and battled his way to the lead.

French ace City Light emerged as the biggest threat as the post loomed and they flashed by almost as one, but after a short wait the judge confirmed Merchant Navy had held on by a short-head.