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Frankie Dettori lands another Royal Ascot winner after controversial stewards’ enquiry demotes Oisin Murphy

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FRANKIE DETTORI landed another Royal Ascot winner after a controversial stewards’ enquiry.

The superstar rider initially finished a close second on US-trained 5-1 Campanelle in the 3.40 Commonwealth Cup on day four of Royal Ascot.

Stewards ruled that Murphy’s mount, right, caused interference with Dettori’s ride, left
The placings were reversed, with Dettori named winner and Murphy demoted to second

Oisin Murphy was first past the post on the well-backed 4-1 Dragon Symbol.

But head-on replays appeared to show Murphy’s mount veering right twice across the track.

The two ran out a thrilling finish as they separated themselves from the field in the six furlong contest.

But an enquiry was called shortly after the finish to determine whether Murphy’s horse had caused sufficient interference.

Dettori and Murphy argued their cases in front of stewards, who ultimately decided to reverse the placings.

Respected ITV commentator Richard Hoiles thought the difference was ‘marginal’.

And some punters were less than convinced the interference was enough to make a difference.

But the result stood, meaning an incredible 76th Royal Ascot winner for the unstoppable 50-year-old jockey.

There was agony for English trainer Archie Watson, though.

He saw his ‘victory’ wiped out and given to American counterpart Wesley Ward.

Ward, who was congratulated by Watson, said: “Take nothing away from both. They both ran fantastic.

“They were only inches apart but I think it was a validated result.

“Archie Watson came over and shook my hand – a true gentleman.”

But there was redemption for champion jockey Murphy in the very next race as he won on Alcohol Free.

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