Noverre captures Sussex Stakes

Noverre got redemption for his disqualification from the French 2000 Guineas with an impressive victory in the $392,000 Group 1 Sussex Stakes at Goodwood on Wednesday.

The 9-2 Noverre came late under Frankie Dettori to defeat No Excuse Needed by two lengths, with Black Minnaloushe, the 3-1 choice who had beaten him by a neck in the St. James's Palace Stakes, another 1 1/2 lengths behind in third. Olden Times was fourth. The time for the mile on good to firm ground was 1:37.12.

"I think he is the best miler in Europe now," said winning Godolphin owner Sheikh Mohammed, although the connections of Medicean and Banks Hill might demur.

Noverre had the classic Poule d'Essai des Poulains (French 2000 Guineas) taken away from him on Friday for having tested positive for a banned arthritis drug.