Royal Scotsman confirmed himself a smart performer as he justified odds-on favouritism with a clear-cut success in the Richmond Stakes at Goodwood.

Trained by Paul and Oliver Cole, the son of Gleneagles was heavily backed all day and eventually sent off the 5-6 favourite against some promising juveniles.

Royal Scotsman had the best form in the book having finished third in what is looking a very strong Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, with the second from that race, Persian Force, coming out and winning the July Stakes.

With two furlongs to run Jim Crowley moved his Jim and Fitri Hay-owned mount between horses and in a matter of strides he had put the race to bed.

Al Karrar stuck on nicely for second, beaten a length and a half behind Royal Scotsman, who set a new course record.

Crowley said: “Royal Scotsman had the best form in the book. His Coventry form has worked out well and he was unlucky in the Coventry as I was drawn one and got a bump.

“He has a lot of speed and he could be a horse for the Prix Morny. He is physically strong and has lots of speed. The more he learns to relax, he will be able to go further.”