Former winners defended programme in face of criticism that the series is out of date and too hard to win.

With one of France’s best horses, Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad of Qatar is hopeful of a winner in Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe.

Leading an all-female team at Ascot, American riding sensation Rosie Napravnik among the favourites to win the trophy.

BHA finds banned trainer Mahmood Al Zarooni acted alone in horse doping scandal, but questions remain unanswered.