Trainer unconcerned by 12-furlong test at ParisLongchamp.
Trainer Andre Fabre is optimistic that the additional distance of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe will lead to further improvement in Mqse De Sevigne. The five-time Group One winner is set to tackle the mile and a half at ParisLongchamp next month, a distance she has yet to compete over in her career.
This season, Mqse De Sevigne has been in formidable form, remaining unbeaten while securing second victories in both the Prix Rothschild and Prix Jean Romanet. However, her primary challenger may emerge from within her stable, with Sosie recently rising to prominence in the Arc betting market after an impressive win in the Prix Niel, where he comfortably bested Prix du Jockey Club winner Look De Vega.
"They are doing well; they just worked this morning, and I was very pleased with them," said Fabre, who holds the record for the most Arc victories with eight wins.
Fabre expressed his confidence in Mqse De Sevigne, countering common concerns about the distance. "I fancy the mare. So many people seem to think the Arc may be a bit far for her, but I have exactly the opposite opinion. I think an extra two furlongs will help her," he stated.
Favourite beaten!
Sosie gets the better of Delius and Look De Vega to land the Prix Niel at @paris_longchamp under @maximeguyon_off… pic.twitter.com/4xqO8dNDgc
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 15, 2024
The trainer noted the mare's preference for soft ground, emphasizing her adaptability. "She loves soft ground, and her ability is not in question. She will adapt to the course and distance very well. She's in very good shape."
While acknowledging the strengths of Sosie, Fabre highlighted the potential impact of ground conditions on his performance. "Sosie is a nice horse as well, and he is coming forward at the right moment. If it goes very heavy ground, that won't help him, but soft ground will be fine."
Fabre compared Sosie's trajectory to other successful horses he has trained for the Arc, noting that they often peak at the right time. "He's like a few horses I've had who have won the Arc, in that he is coming good at the right moment."
Though hesitant to pick a clear favourite between his two charges, Fabre believes both horses have strong prospects. "I would not like to say one in front of the other, but I think both have a good chance of being in the first four—say it like that." With Fabre's record and the horses' capabilities, both Mqse De Sevigne and Sosie are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming Arc.
