Yeats surges clear to win the Gold Cup

Kieren Fallon took the 7-1 shot to the front with two furlongs to go and held on in style to win by four lengths.

Reefscape came in second, a nose ahead of pre-race favourite Distinction, who pushed hard in the final furlongs but was unable to close the gap.

O'Brien said: "We had a few problems in the spring with Yeats and it's a credit to everyone that we got him here."

Interview: Kieren Fallon

Fallon said: "I knew we hadn't gone very quick, and I knew we'd saved our gas. I knew he'd have a turn of foot - he's a horse with a lot of class.

"I got a dream run all the way round. At least I was sensible for the first lap."

O'Brien was delighted with the stamina Yeats showed to win him his first Gold Cup.

He said: "Kieren always had faith in the horse, particularly after the Irish St Leger last year.

It is with sadness that I have to confirm that Media Puzzle has been put down Paul Struthers

"We knew he would get two miles, but you're never that sure when they go this far. He's a great horse to have."

Co-owner Diane Nagle said: "We're thrilled. Aidan thought he might need a run before today, but it's great.

"Nothing came at us. It's an absolute dream. Kieren gave him a fantastic ride."

Media Puzzle broke down just before the line and was taken away in the horse ambulance.

The Dermot Weld-trained nine-year-old was later put down after receiving extensive veterinary attention.

Paul Struthers, Horseracing Regulatory Authority spokesman, said: "The injuries to his near-fore leg were extensive so it is with sadness that I have to confirm that Media Puzzle has been put down."