Goodwood owners celebrate a very real Mirage victory

Dettori guided home the GROG three-year-old at Newmarket on his first day back in the saddle since his split from Godolphin was revealed.

The Italian’s 18-year contract with Sheikh Mohammed’s racing operation is coming to a close - but he showed all his old dash aboard Goodwood Mirage.

Dettori, 41, was busy pushing away on his mount halfway through the seven-furlong Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association Maiden Stakes.

But the hard work paid off as the John Dunlop-trained newcomer picked up in stirring fashion through the closing strides to get the better of Legal Waves and Yarroom after that pair had fought out a protracted battle.

The 12-1 shot - one of two horses in training currently owned by GROG members - scored by three-quarters of a length and Dettori arrived in the winner’s enclosure to a rousing reception from racegoers.

After a clenched fist salute, Dettori gave his trademark flying dismount before blowing a kiss to a large band from the successful Goodwood group.

Arundel trainer Dunlop, who retires at the end of the season, said: “Frankie gave him (Goodwood Mirage) a great ride - he always does.

“Frankie is not just world class, he’s top of the world class. I’m sure he will be employed by many people with huge success for many years to come.”

Dunlop said of Goodwood Mirage: “He has been very immature but has started to work well in the last six weeks and has a lovely attitude.”