Harry Skelton hailed Protektorat as a 'warrior' with exceptional toughness, a left-handed running preference, and an invaluable racing temperament that makes him central to the team and their families.

Owners Ged Mason and the Hales family were watching from afar, with John Hales shown as proud, reflecting how Protektorat’s success echoes through the owners' and team’s lives.

The victory adds notable prestige to Protektorat’s career, prompting discussions among the connections about future plans and underscoring the horse’s historical significance to the outfit.

Protektorat led from the front and held off a late challenge from Handstands near the second-last fence to seal the win.

The win came on a muddy Windsor track, with Skelton noting a notable reception in the non-operational winner’s enclosure area due to the conditions.

Protektorat previously won the 2024 Ryanair Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and remained a strong betting market contender for regaining a title, with Coral adjusting odds ahead of potential further glory.

The Cheltenham triumph in 2024 and sustained elite status were repeatedly cited as markers of Protektorat’s enduring form and high regard among bookmakers.

The 11-year-old gelding has now surpassed £1 million in prize money, reaching a landmark total with this victory.

The win came in a competitive two-mile-six-furlong race, showcasing Protektorat’s continued power and enthusiasm despite advancing age and tougher conditions.

This success adds to a prior £165,000 win in the same race last season, underscoring a durable return to form.

Dan Skelton indicated that future plans for Protektorat remain uncertain, given owners’ and team members’ schedules, suggesting a period of contemplation after the win.

Protektorat, ridden by Harry Skelton and trained by Dan Skelton, defended the Fleur de Lys Chase at Windsor, winning by three and three-quarter lengths over Resplendent Grey, marking a second consecutive win in the race.