Ascot next for victorious Roaring Lion

Roaring Lion is being lined up for the Champion Stakes at Ascot following his victory in Saturday's Qipco Irish Champion Stakes.

Jockey Oisin Murphy guided the John Gosden-trained favourite from almost the back of the field with just over a furlong remaining to claim a thrilling victory in the 10-furlong Group One race at Leopardstown.

His success came at the expense of old rival Saxon Warrior in the sixth head-to-head between the pair.

It was a repeat of the outcome in July's Coral-Eclipse at Sandown and a fourth triumph for Roaring Lion compared to two for the 2000 Guineas winner.

Speaking about the win and where Roaring Lion will be heading next, Gosden's son, Thady, said: “He had to do it the hard way and come around the field, but he's got the job done.

“He and Oisin have gelled incredibly well and it's been an incredible day for Oisin as he only rode his first winner in Ireland earlier in the day (aboard Limini).

“In terms of where he goes next, we will have to talk to the owners and also see what the ground is like at Ascot for the Champion Stakes [on October 15]. He's shown today how important good ground is for that turn of foot that he's got.

“We were sweating a little bit today, but the horse and Oisin have done it and everyone at home deserves a lot of credit for the job they have done.”