The leafy racecourse at Compiegne sets the stage for an exciting afternoon of flat racing on 24 September 2025. The Compiegne horse racing card unfolds across eight contests, a mix of handicaps and condition races that bring together a diverse field of French-trained contenders. Racing begins at 3:21 PM and builds towards a late-afternoon finale over 1400 metres. With France Galop’s calendar heating up, Compiegne promises a blend of proven campaigners and emerging names ready to stamp their mark.
Opening Contest: Promising Middle-Distance Runners
The afternoon opens with the Prix des Dauphines, a 2000m conditional event worth €16,500, starting at 3:21 PM. The lineup is headlined by Stern Markka, partnered by Mme Claudia Fleissner for trainer M. Figge, and Stingray, who arrives under Mme Berit Weber for M. Weiss. There is intrigue too around Sweet Excess (Mme Lara Le Geay, trainer L. Vanska) and Always Welcome (Mme Amandine Baudron, trainer L. Baudron). Outsiders like Ilumine Precieuse and Hasapiko could add depth to a race where consistency is likely to matter more than flair.
Shifting to 1800m: Balance of Youth and Experience
The Prix de Blerancourt at 3:53 PM introduces a deeper mix over 1800m. Kowalski, with the reliable Mickaël Barzalona aboard, looks well placed for S. Cerulis, while Jaamir (Stephane Breux for K. Sansen) adds a touch of stamina. There is French flair in Grand Macho (Mme Axelle Duquesnoy, trainer C. Boutin) and Steall Pletude (Ronan Thomas, trainer C. Lecrivain). Local hopes Lady Chrisnat and Agatha Senora provide value in a race likely to reward tactical positioning.
Mile Showdown in the Prix de Bethancourt-en-Valois
By 4:25 PM, attention shifts to the mile with the Prix de Bethancourt-en-Valois, carrying €20,100. Salam Dubawi (Cristian Demuro, trainer A. Schutz) catches the eye, though Mondo Boy and Aminaco—both representing the P.&J. Brandt team—should not be underestimated. Jack O Damo, shipped in by Japanese conditioner Y. Yahagi, brings an international angle. This clash feels like one where turn of foot in the final furlong may separate class from grit.
Competitive Handicaps Take Over
The handicaps dominate the middle of the Compiegne card, starting with the Prix de Vignemont at 4:57 PM. Akagera, trained by Jul. Phelippon with Thomas Trullier aboard, looks a prime candidate, though the likes of Hurricane Light (Maxime Guyon for L. Bernhardt) and Royalties (Giovanni Sias for M. Rosseel) bring tested form. Love Maria (Mme Ambre Molins, trainer Mme J. Le Stang) and Hot Summer round out a field brimming with course specialists.
The higher-stakes Prix Poggio Ricco at 5:42 PM raises the standard with €25,600 on offer. Dos Mukasan (Cristian Demuro for Chr. Head) provides class appeal, while Drops of God (Mickaël Barzalona, trainer G. Bietolini) may relish this trip. Piquoiseau (Stephane Pasquier, trainer C. Ferland) and Chardon look poised to make this one of the tightest finishes of the day.
Late Afternoon Handicaps: Stamina and Strategy
The Prix de Choisy Au Bac, off at 6:17 PM, introduces depth with Orange Vif (Ronan Thomas, trainer Mme C. Barande-Barbe) and Dzarina (Clément Lecoeuvre, trainer F. Monnier) among the headline acts. Add in Terra Madre and King Hartwood, and this handicap could easily spring a surprise.
Just after, at 6:52 PM, the Prix de la Basse Automne carries €21,100. Polite (Mme Ambre Molins, trainer G. Pannier) has drawn early interest, but Septimus (Alexis Pouchin, trainer M. Nigge) and Simon’s King (Maxime Guyon, trainer J. Goossens) shape as legitimate challengers. The Barzalona-ridden Lunala gives the race added intrigue, setting up a tactical affair over the mile.
Closing Contest: Speed and Precision
The curtain falls with the Prix du Vermandois at 7:27 PM. Over 1400m and worth €22,100, it draws together sprinting specialists like Waziers (Leonard Plommee, trainer F. Foresi) and Premium Pass (Mme Alison Massin, trainer Y. Barberot). Ever Kate (Cristian Demuro for F. Bresson) and Manarola (Augustin Madamet, trainer P. Sigaud) are strong dangers, while Romance Marine and Oaxaca offer each-way appeal. With fading light and plenty at stake, this finale promises a sharp, tactical burn-up down the straight.
The Compiegne horse racing card on 24 September offers something for every racing enthusiast—international challengers, tactical handicaps, and promising condition races. With leading riders like Demuro, Barzalona, and Guyon in action, the afternoon blends class with competition. For those following French racing closely, Compiegne could well deliver a series of storylines to shape the autumn season.
For more on France’s vibrant racing scene, revisit our coverage of Chennai race results and the Auteuil preview to track form lines and key performers across Europe.
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