As the curtain rises on the Prix de Diane Longines 2025 at Chantilly on June 15, racing enthusiasts across the globe will witness more than just a Group 1 Classic. This year’s edition carries profound emotional weight for fans of Thoroughbred racing, as the legendary Aga Khan Studs return in pursuit of an eighth victory in the prestigious race—this time, under the stewardship of Princess Zahra Aga Khan.
The Aga Khan family’s history with the Prix de Diane is unmatched. The late Prince Aga Khan IV, who passed away earlier this year, remains the most successful owner in the history of the race, having claimed the title seven times. His name is synonymous with excellence in breeding and racing, and this year’s entry marks the beginning of a new chapter led by his daughter, Princess Zahra.
For the 2025 renewal, two talented fillies will line up in the family’s iconic silks: Mandanaba, representing Princess Zahra, and Cankoura, racing under the classic green and red of the Aga Khan Studs. Both are trained by the acclaimed Chantilly-based handler Francis-Henri Graffard, who already boasts Prix de Diane success with Channel in 2019. His familiarity with both the race and the course adds another layer of confidence to the team’s campaign.
Mandanaba has already made a name for herself in top-class company. She finished an impressive third in the Emirates Poule d’Essai des Pouliches (French 1,000 Guineas), showcasing both her quality and her potential to excel over further. Out of the celebrated mare Mandesha—a former champion for Princess Zahra—Mandanaba has added significance. She is not just talented; she is also the last foal of Mandesha, making her a sentimental favourite for the team.
In fact, Mandesha had not been particularly successful as a broodmare, making Mandanaba’s emergence all the more poignant. According to Nemone Routh, Racing Manager for the Aga Khan Studs, Mandanaba is generous and prefers racing close to the pace—an important advantage at Chantilly, especially when the ground is good. This tactical style complements her pedigree, which suggests she may thrive over the extended 2,000-metre trip of the Prix de Diane.
Alongside her will be Cankoura, who recently captured the Listed Prix Finlande. Though her earlier performance in the Prix des Lilas left something to be desired, that run was marred by poor ground and a cautious ride. In the Finlande, Cankoura was allowed to settle nearer to the pace and responded well, despite still needing the outing due to limited work between starts.
While Cankoura may be slightly more under the radar than her stablemate, the connections are optimistic about her chances. Described as honest and willing, she is another front-runner who will benefit from firmer going. Clément Lecoeuvre is set to ride her, and his tactical awareness could be key if the ground rides quick on Sunday.
The Aga Khan Studs’ legacy in the Prix de Diane is illustrious, with past winners like Zarkava (2008), Sarafina (2010), and Valyra (2012) remembered as some of the finest fillies in recent history. Others such as Shemaka, Vereva, Zainta, and Daryaba have also contributed to the green and red silks becoming synonymous with success in French Classics.
More than a contest of speed and stamina, the 2025 edition of the Prix de Diane Longines represents continuity, memory, and a family’s enduring commitment to excellence in breeding and racing. The Aga Khan Studs have long focused on producing fillies capable of shining at the highest level before transitioning into broodmare careers—an approach that has yielded generational success.
As Sunday approaches, the racing world watches with anticipation. Will Mandanaba deliver a fairy tale win as her dam’s final gift to the sport? Can Cankoura step up and claim Classic glory under the radar? Whatever the result, one thing is certain: the legacy of the Aga Khan Studs will once again take center stage at Chantilly.
