Ombudsman emphatically turned the tables on Delacroix to win a fascinating Group One International Stakes (2,051m) at York on day one of their Ebor Festival.

The John and Thady Gosden-trained star was pipped by Delacroix in a tactical Group One Eclipse Stakes (2,000m) at Sandown last month, but the form was reversed in no uncertain terms.

Godolphin ensured the race would be run at a true gallop by introducing Birr Castle as a pacemaker, with Rab Havlin sending him on by over 20 lengths and turning into the straight, the margin was still enormous.

After 150-1 pacemaker Qirat stole the Group One Sussex Stakes (1,600m) at Glorious Goodwood, punters were no doubt envisaging a repeat when Birr Castle entered the final 400m still clear.

William Buick never panicked on Ombudsman, however, and he unleashed a devastating turn of foot to saunter by inside the final furlong, leaving Delacroix trailing in his wake.

It was a brilliant performance from a horse going from strength to strength, though joint-trainer John Gosden admitted he had some very anxious moments.

“Andre very kindly lent us the horse. He was in great form in Deauville at the weekend and said, ‘I’d like the same result as happened at Goodwood’. With two to run I thought Andre’s request was coming true,” said Gosden.

“It was quite extraordinary. The horse has run a huge race to be third. I did say to William if he’d sat four lengths off the pace he might have won by ten lengths!”

Meanwhile, dual Derby winner Lambourn suffered a shock defeat in the Group Two Great Voltigeur Stakes (2,400m) at the hands of Pride Of Arras.

Lambourn enjoyed the perfect trip on the shoulder of stablemate Thrice, but after taking the lead, the writing was quickly on the wall when he was unable to dig in and quicken away from the challengers.

He ultimately weakened into fifth, with a gelding operation helping course winner Pride Of Arras return to winning ways for Ralph Beckett.