Protector third in Queen of the turf

The Robert Smerdon-trained mare, carrying Craig Williams in the colours of Qatar Bloodstock, finished behind the four-year-olds Azkadellia and Heavens Above in a field of 15. The winner, who is trained by Ciaron Maher, had finished third, two and a quarter lengths behind Australia's new racing sensation Winx seven days ago, and was favourite to win today's race.

Noble Protector was beaten two lengths and one and a half lengths, but Qatar Bloodstock could rejoice in the Gr.1 Australian Oaks victory of Sofia Rosa on the same card. A daughter of Qatar Bloodstock stallion Makfi, she became a first Classic winner in Australasia for her sire.

Sofia Rosa is owned by JML Bloodstock and trained by Hugh Bowman.

European Stakes runners this weekend involve two challengers for tomorrow's Gr.2 Prix d'Harcourt at Chantilly.

Qatar Racing's Sumbal, the mount of Oisin Murphy, and Ming Dynasty, who is to be ridden by Umberto Rispoli, join a field of 12 in the ten-furlong contest, which is set to be run on heavy ground.

Trainer Francis Graffard was happy with Sumbal's season's reappearance when second to a rival who was receiving three kilos at Saint-Cloud recently. He came out of that race in good health and has won on soft ground.

Mikel Delzangles, who trains Ming Dynasty for a partnership involving Qatar Racing and the Wildenstein family, has been eyeing this race for some time. His colt also has form on soft ground, and was a winner at this level last year.