Haydock Park prepares to deliver its biggest Flat racing spectacle of the year this Saturday, September 6, as the prestigious Group One Sprint Cup promises an exhilarating six-furlong battle featuring some of Europe’s finest sprinters.
For France, all eyes will be on Lazzat, the star four-year-old gelding trained by Jerome Reynier, who arrives with ambitions of securing a sixth French victory in the Sprint Cup’s storied history. Racing in the royal blue silks of Wathnan Racing, the son of Territories has already carved out a reputation as one of Europe’s elite speedsters, boasting eight wins from just 12 starts, including two Group One triumphs.
Trainer’s First Haydock Mission
Saturday marks a milestone for trainer Jerome Reynier, as Lazzat becomes his first-ever starter at Haydock Park. Speaking ahead of the race, an optimistic Reynier expressed his excitement:
“It’s exciting to have our first runner at Haydock Park,” he said during a media briefing. “Winning our first Group One at Royal Ascot with Lazzat was a big moment, and now we want to come over and prove ourselves again.”
Lazzat was last seen finishing runner-up in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville, where he narrowly missed back-to-back titles after last year’s victory. Despite that defeat, Reynier remains confident:
“When he got beaten by Sajir, it was tough, but we were happy with the horse’s effort. If he wins another Group One on Saturday, it would be incredible — he could even be crowned Europe’s sprint champion, which would mean a lot to everyone involved.”
Perfectly Tuned for Haydock
Lazzat has been training at Deauville over the past month and completed his final workout last Saturday on the straight course. Reynier is delighted with his preparation:
“He moved beautifully, behaved well, and looks amazing physically,” he said. “We’ve adjusted his travel plans to ensure he’s fresh but focused for Saturday.”
Interestingly, while Lazzat’s physique and pedigree hint at a miler’s frame, Reynier believes six furlongs on a straight track is where his stable star truly shines. After experimenting over longer distances — including a run in Australia’s Golden Eagle and two mile attempts — Reynier reverted to sprinting this year, a decision that quickly paid off with a Listed win at Chantilly followed by his Royal Ascot heroics.
French History and Familiar Guidance
The Sprint Cup has long been a happy hunting ground for France, with five past winners — Lianga (1975), Polar Falcon (1991), Cherokee Rose (1995), Nuclear Debate (2001), and African Rose (2008). Reynier, who once worked as assistant trainer to three-time Sprint Cup-winning handler John Hammond, revealed that he received some valuable insights from his former mentor.
“John reminded me that his winners often came from behind,” Reynier joked. “But with Lazzat, it’s about rhythm, not position. He doesn’t have to lead, but he needs to run freely to show his best.”
With retained jockey James Doyle in the saddle, confidence is high within the Wathnan Racing camp.
The Rivals and the Road Ahead
While Lazzat leads the French charge, several strong challengers await, including Sayidah Dariyan, Time For Sandals, and No Half Measures — all capable of capitalizing if the favorite falters.
Looking ahead, Reynier hinted at a possible international campaign next year, with Dubai’s Al Quoz Sprint among the potential targets.
“If he performs the way we expect, there’s a chance we’ll take him global,” he confirmed. “But first, we need to handle Haydock.”
Ground and Weather Conditions
Dan Cooper, Clerk of the Course at Haydock Park, provided an update on track conditions:
“The ground is currently good on the straight course and good to soft on the round track,” he said. “We’ve seen minimal rainfall so far and, unless unexpected thunderstorms arrive, conditions should be ideal for top-class racing.”
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