STRADIVARIUS capped a magnificent season when coming out on top in a dramatic race for the Group 2 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.

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.”