Coronation Stakes goes to France Ervedya, trained by French handler Jean-Claude Rouget and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, won the Group One Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot. The 3/1 chance was held up near the rear of the nine-runner field, which was taken along by Epsom winner Arabian Queen with Yasmeen hot on her heels. The big three in the betting took control soon after turning into the straight and although 13/8 favourite Found got to the front under red-hot rider Ryan Moore with a furlong to travel, Soumillon timed his run to perfection on the French Guineas winner, who stayed on powerfully to edge the verdict by a neck. Third went to Lucida, who was delivered even later by Kevin Manning but could not reel in the principal duo. Soumillon said: "I was lucky I got a gap in the middle. "I knew Aidan O'Brien's filly would be at the top of her game today and she beat us last year in Longchamp. "When I saw her in that position I thought it was better to stay behind her and maybe that's why I won, as if I had come on the outside I'm not sure she would have quickened like she did and stay on to the line. "It's not an easy track to handle and we were not sure she would, but now we know. "She goes on any ground, any distance, any course - she is perfect and has a lovely temperament." Rouget said: "It was a big dream to come and win a Group One here. "She's the best, mentally she is fantastic and that makes her the best. "She could go for the Prix Rothschild." O'Brien plans to give Found a break following her excellent effort in defeat. "We're delighted with her, she ran a great race," said the trainer. "I'd say she'll keep improving. The plan was always to have the three runs, have a little rest and then step up in trip. I'd say that's what we'll do." Jim Bolger's Lucida carried the Godolphin silks to third place. Sheikh Mohammed's bloodstock advisor John Ferguson said: "She's done very well, only beaten half a length in a Group One. "I'm sure she'll have her day and we'll stick to a mile with her."
