Silvestre De Sousa has been eased for the 2012 Flat Jockeys' Championship by Stan James after signing a deal for the giant Godolphin operation.

Stan James spokesman Rory Jiwani says, "We thought this year would see another thrilling fight between Paul Hanagan and Silvestre De Sousa for the jockeys' title, but De Sousa appears to have given up his chance by signing up to be number two at Godolphin behind Frankie Dettori.

"Much of De Sousa's success last season came on Northern tracks but this new deal will prevent him taking up so many rides for other yards. We've pushed him out from 11/4 to 4/1 for the jockeys' crown with Hanagan now 2/1 favourite from 3/1 to secure a third consecutive title. We've also trimmed Ryan Moore from 4/1 into 7/2."

2012 British Flat Jockeys' Championship (win only): 2 Paul Hanagan 7/2 Ryan Moore 4 Silvestre De Sousa 5 Richard Hughes 7 Kieren Fallon 20 William Buick 40 Jamie Spencer 50 Tom Queally 66 Frankie Dettori 100 bar