Connections of Sky Lantern were unsuccessful in their appeal against the result of the Falmouth Stakes, with Elusive Kate confirmed as the winner, the British Horseracing Authority confirmed.

The Richard Hannon-trained Sky Lantern, winner of the 1000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes, was beaten a neck by John Gosden's Elusive Kate at Newmarket last Friday but was carried across the track as the winner hung left in the hands of William Buick, who did have his whip in his correct hand.

A statement from the disciplinary panel said: "Although Sky Lantern was carried left-handed by Elusive Kate in the final one-and-a-half furlongs and accidentally struck once by Buick, Hughes did not have to stop riding and his filly did not lose sufficient momentum.

"The panel therefore dismissed Hannon's appeal and confirmed the placings."

Patrick Barbe, spokesman for Elusive Kate's owner Teruya Yoshida, said: "Of course we are very happy. I think justice has been done as there was no contact and according to the English rules, she should keep the race.

"I think the best filly won on the day - she won fair and square.

"Maybe the two fillies will meet again, we will see.

"It looks like we will be going for the Prix Rothschild (Deauville, July 28). The last I heard the filly is well and Deauville is the target."

A decision is expected to be made next week on whether Sky Lantern steps up to 10 furlongs for the first time in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood on August 3.

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