The ground at Longchamp for this year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe could provide favorable conditions for the Japanese challengers, with reports suggesting a “bon” going, or good-to-soft, ahead of the race on Sunday. This marks the second time in three seasons that such conditions have appeared before the prestigious event, which brings together the best middle-distance horses from across Europe and Japan.
As of the penultimate declaration stage, 17 horses remain in contention for the race, with Aidan O’Brien’s Minnie Hauk expected to be added to the field at the supplementary entry stage. The going report currently reads 7.2 on the GoingStick, indicating good-to-soft ground, with little rain expected over the next few days. This weather forecast is particularly good news for the Japanese contingent, which includes Croix Du Nord, Byzantine Dream, and Alohi Alii. These horses are more accustomed to fast ground, and this year’s conditions are expected to suit their running style.
Aidan O’Brien, who has already secured 19 Group One wins this season, also has entries in several key races over the Arc weekend. His horse, Los Angeles, finished third on soft ground in the Arc last year, and O’Brien believes the ground could again work in Los Angeles’ favor if conditions turn heavier closer to the race.
The potential for a drier track could be a disadvantage for Aventure, who has performed well on softer conditions. However, trainer Christophe Ferland remains optimistic despite the unpredictability of the weather. Aventure’s recent win in the Prix Vermeille has made her one of the favorites for the race, and Ferland is confident her versatility on different types of ground will serve her well.
The Arc de Triomphe is a notoriously challenging race, often seen as the hardest to win on French soil. André Fabre, one of the most successful trainers in Arc history with eight wins to his name, still has two horses in the running—Sosie and Cualificar. The British challenge will be more limited, with Kalpana, Giavellotto, and Estrange all still in contention.
The race is shaping up to be a dramatic contest, with international and French horses set to battle it out on one of the biggest stages in European racing.
