Ascot ace off to stud

THE European racing career of Diamond Jubilee Stakes winner Merchant Navy has been cut short after last Saturday’s Ascot winner was retired to stud. The Australian-trained colt joined Aidan O’Brien with the aim of winning at the Royal meeting, an objective he achieved by a narrow margin in thrilling fashion. O’Brien had hoped the son of Fastnet Rock would be allowed to tackle the July Cup at Newmarket in two weeks, but Merchant Navy will now enter quarantine before returning to Australia for stud duties.