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James Doyle has been snapped up by Joe Tuite for the ride on classy stayer Litigant in the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot on Saturday.

The Lambourn handler was quick to acquire the services of Doyle, who has been in great demand since the news last month that he was no longer automatic choice for Godolphin trainer Saeed bin Suroor.

Christophe Soumillon, who will be aboard ante-post favourite Almanzor in the Qipco Champion Stakes, had been pencilled in for the ride, but Tuite confirmed Doyle will be aboard his stable star.

The eight-year-old has been off the track with niggly problems since winning the November Handicap at Doncaster last November, but a lengthy lay-off has not stopped him producing a big run in the past.

He had been sidelined for 16 months before landing the Ebor at York in August 2015.

Litigant was unplaced in this race 12 months ago after losing his place in the straight where he was hampered.

"James Doyle rides him. Christophe Soumillon was going to ride him and then he wasn't, so I booked James Doyle on Tuesday," said Tuite.

"The horse is very good and I'm very happy with him. I just can't wait for the day. It's a big day."