Daryz is poised to make history in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, aiming to become the first colt since 1978 to win the prestigious race in consecutive years. Trainer Francis Henri-Graffard’s patient training style is credited with fostering incremental improvement in his horses, a strategy that appears set to benefit the favorite.
Daryz won last year's Arc by a significant margin, beating Minnie Hauk. While the ground is expected to be quicker this year, connections are confident in the horse's ability. Daryz was reportedly at 80-85 percent fitness when he won the Prix Foy, his chosen Arc trial, and is considered to be at his peak for the main event. A favorable draw in stall five further enhances his prospects.
Each-Way Contenders and Other Prospects
For those seeking value, Daryz's stablemate Varandir is highlighted as a strong each-way contender. Another product of the Graffard stable, Varandir has shown gradual improvement and won the Prix Niel. Drawn next to Daryz in stall four, he shares collateral form with Maltese Cross and is seen as being in the mold of last year's Daryz.
Joseph O’Brien’s filly Thundering On is also noted as a potential contender, with three-year-old fillies historically performing well in the Arc. Despite some previous underwhelming performances and a cough detected post-race, Thundering On impressed in the Group Two Blandford Stakes. A draw in stall three and a return to a longer trip are seen as offsetting concerns about quicker ground.
Maltese Cross and Kalpana are considered solid contenders but may be priced too short. Maltese Cross, trained by William Haggas, benefits from an each-way price, but questions remain about the strength of British and Irish three-year-old middle-distance colt form. Kalpana’s chances are tempered by a potentially unfavorable draw and a demanding racing schedule leading up to the Arc.
Aidan O’Brien saddles three runners, including Benvenuto Cellini. While O’Brien has a history of preparing horses for transatlantic races, Benvenuto Cellini’s suitability for the Arc and subsequent Breeders’ Cup is debated. Minnie Hauk, who finished second last year, is also mentioned, with O’Brien aiming to bring her back to her prime form.
Understudy Races
Beyond the Arc, Graffard has a strong presence on the undercard. Queen of the Day is considered a forgotten contender in the Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac, with the step up to a mile expected to benefit her. In the Jean-Luc Lagadere, Amusingly, a half-sister to Frankel, is tipped as a potential improver capable of competing at the highest level.
The Prix de l’Abbaye presents a fairytale narrative with Naana’s Shadow, a horse that has risen significantly through the handicapping ranks. However, a draw in stall 14 poses a significant challenge. This could open the door for Shiri, another Graffard contender, to reverse recent form.
In the Prix de l’Opera, Cankoura is expected to outrun her odds, having been freshened up for the race. However, the main selection is Precise, who makes a long-awaited step up to ten furlongs. The former Irish Guineas and Coronation Stakes winner has consistently performed well and is expected to benefit from the increased distance.
The day concludes with the Prix de La Foret, where Samangan is tipped to continue a successful day for Graffard. Samangan achieved a career-best win in the Prix Maurice de Gheest and is expected to build on that performance. Aidan O’Brien’s True Love is identified as a potential danger in a competitive field.