'My ambition is to win a third title – this is the one I really want'

On the night when most of the country were captivated by England tackling Croatia in a World Cup semi-final, Peter Thomas followed Silvestre de Sousa to Kempton, with the champion jockey's relentless pursuit of winners showing no signs of waning . . .

A slow, muggy evening at Kempton Park and a balloon bearing the Cross of St George bobs jauntily at the main gate. Today is Waistcoat Wednesday, World Cup hopes have yet to be deflated and there's no doubting where the focus of the nation's attention lies as Lady Al Thumama strides largely unheralded to victory in the fourth race.

It's 6.58pm, and while 26 million patriotic bottoms perch on their sofas in a state of high expectation, Silvestre de Sousa is nearing the end of a 170-mile rush from Great Yarmouth, having hopped straight off the winner of the 4.20 to begin another epic-yet-everyday journey. Tonight he has two rides at the Sunbury venue, the first not until 8.25. On any other day, he and his driver would be hostage to the vagaries of motorway traffic, but on this exceptional afternoon the roads are populated by only the staunchest of football refuseniks and he is delivered refreshed and in good time.