There’s a quiet intensity in the air at ParisLongchamp as racing fans anticipate the 104th running of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe (G1). All eyes are on Minnie Hauk (IRE), the triple Oaks-winning filly who has captivated Europe this season with her flawless progression. Supplemented to the Arc for €120,000, the daughter of Frankel (GB) carries the hopes of Derrick Smith, Mrs. John Magnier, and Michael Tabor as she attempts to crown a remarkable 3-year-old campaign.
Trained by Aidan O’Brien, Minnie Hauk has dominated the Betfred Oaks (G1), Juddmonte Irish Oaks (G1), and Pertemps Network Yorkshire Oaks (G1). “This filly looks like a progressive 3-year-old,” O’Brien remarked. “They can step up another gear at this time of year. It’s going to be fascinating to see how she handles it.”
Her chief rival is Wertheimer & Frere’s Aventure (IRE), winner of the Qatar Prix Vermeille (G1). Under the guidance of trainer Christopher Head, Aventure aims to improve on her runner-up finish in last year’s Arc. Other key contenders include Sosie (IRE), second last year’s favourite, Byzantine Dream (JPN), who hopes to become the first Japanese-trained horse to win the Arc, and Juddmonte’s Kalpana (GB), whose form will be tested after a recent defeat. Completing the 17-strong field are Daryz (FR), Giavellotto (IRE), Croix Du Nord (JPN), Cualificar (GB), Alohi Alii (JPN), Quisisana (FR), Los Angeles (IRE), Leffard (FR), White Birch (GB), Arrow Eagle (FR), and Hotazhell (GB).
The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe remains one of the richest races in Europe, with €5 million on offer, and serves as a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the $5 million Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1). The Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, spanning 15 countries and 93 races, ensures that the winner secures automatic entry and fees paid for the Breeders’ Cup World Championships in Del Mar, California, later this month.
Other feature races on Sunday promise international intrigue. In the Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (G1), Time to Turn (GB) clashes with A Bit of Spirit (IRE), both eyeing a Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf berth. Aidan O’Brien also has an unbeaten filly, Diamond Necklace (IRE), in the Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac-Criterium des Pouliches (G1), chasing her first Group 1 triumph. Noor Elaine Farm’s Asfoora (AUS) aims to make history in the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp Longines (G1), while Jeff Smith’s See The Fire (GB) targets the Prix de l’Opera Longines (G1). Meanwhile, More Thunder (IRE) hopes to continue his ascent in the Qatar Prix de la Foret (G1).
With soft ground expected and a full field of world-class runners, Sunday promises to deliver drama, skill, and unforgettable moments at ParisLongchamp. Racing fans will witness some of the finest three-year-olds and older horses on the continent competing not just for glory, but for a coveted place in the Breeders’ Cup World Championships.
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