Pique Sous is on course to return to Royal Ascot where he enjoyed his finest hour two years ago. The nine-year-old is set to contest the Ascot Stakes next Tuesday, having won the Queen Alexandra Stakes in 2014.

Frustratingly for connections, Pique Sous did not run after that until the Curragh last month, when he shaped encouragingly, though unplaced, behind Repeater in a handicap over a mile and a half.

There was nothing seriously wrong with the Willie Mullins-trained gelding, just a few hiccups that seemed to come at the wrong time.

"He's come out of the race quite well. We're really pleased to get him back after two years," said Steve Massey, racing manager for owners, the Supreme Racing Club.

"He owes us nothing. It was a great day two years ago when he won at Royal Ascot and he's going back there this year. We're delighted he's going back there as he loves the course.

"We're not sure what else will be in the race, but he's rated 98 and he won the Queen Alexandra off 96."