Possibility of Arc raised after latest victory

But his electrifying victory in the Juddmonte International, the Welcome to York Ebor festival’s day one highlight, has raised the tantalising prospect of a tilt at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, Europe’s richest – and most prestigious – race.

Much could rest on the frail health of the horse’s trainer Sir Henry Cecil who was making his first racecourse appearance for several weeks. Painfully gaunt, and walking with the aid of a stick, he has always been reluctant for his horses to run overseas – he remains most fastidious – and it is testament to the quality of his team at his legendary Warren Place stables that he was able to train Frankel from his sickbed.

On a possible tilt at the Arc, Frankel’s owner Prince Khalid Abdullah said: “I will discuss things with Henry and it depends on what he wants to do. I didn’t think a mile-and-a-quarter was a problem, but further than that, I’m not sure.”

His racing manager Teddy Grimthorpe added: “He’s not in there (the Arc). Henry didn’t want him in the race and he’d have to supplemented. There will be a discussion and we’ll have to see. The plan was always Ascot.”

The winner of nine Group One races, Frankel’s official rating could change today. Currently rated 140, he could now match or top Dancing Brave’s all-time high of 141.

Ride of the day went to William Buick on Thought Worthy, now a 14-1 chance to help the jockey, and trainer John Gosden, land a third successive Ladbrokes St Leger.

A reluctant pacemaker in the Grade One Great Voltigeur Stakes, Buick accelerated off the final turn – and then repelled the challenge of his rivals. It was a tactical masterpiece.

“He’s really tough...he will be even better at Doncaster,” said the victorious rider.

As for Gosden, he said the prize-giving ceremony gave him a perfect paddock position to admire a horse called Frankel in the subsequent race.