Winning jockey Murtagh grabbed a position on the rail

Starspangledbanner followed up his Royal Ascot victory by winning the July Cup at Newmarket for leading Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien.

The 2-1 favourite triumphed just 20 days after his brilliant run when landing the Golden Jubilee Stakes.

But jockey Johnny Murtagh was handed a six-day ban for careless riding after seeing off runner-up Equiano (12-1) and third-placed Alverta (66-1).

O'Brien said the winner's planned stud career may now be put on hold.

Murtagh, meanwhile, is banned from 23 to 28 July inclusive, which means he misses the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes meeting at Ascot as well as the first two days of Glorious Goodwood.

His possible King George ride was Irish Derby winner Cape Blanco, who could clash with Epsom hero Workforce in the midsummer showpiece.

Murtagh's suspension was related to his his manoeuvre towards the rail on leaving the stalls.

He steered his mount over to the far rail while Michael Hills raced up the middle of the track on Equiano, a dual King's Stand Stake winner at Royal Ascot.

Starspangledbanner looked in trouble a furlong out as Australian contender Alverta threatened with Fleeting Spirit and Kingsgate Native just behind.

But the former Australian sprinter responded well to claim a second Group One win.

606: DEBATE Have your say on the July Cup

O'Brien said: "He's very tough, he's a serious horse.

"Johnny made the decision to go over to the far rail and it paid off.

"He's got some courage and great pace. Very few horses have that much courage when they are so fast.

"It was great that the two Ascot winners were first and second, it's great when they come together like that."

Darley July Cup 6f, Newmarket
1 Starspangledbanner (Aidan O'Brien) Johnny Murtagh 2-1f
2 Equiano 12-1
3 Alverta 66-1
14 ran: Dist: nk

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