Facteur Cheval Eyes Possible Showdown with City Of Troy in Breeders' Cup Classic
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Facteur Cheval Eyes Possible Showdown with City Of Troy in Breeders' Cup Classic

Jerome Reynier’s gelding could make the switch to dirt.

French star Facteur Cheval is being considered for a potential high-stakes clash with City Of Troy in the prestigious Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar. Jerome Reynier’s talented charge, who claimed victory in the Dubai Turf earlier this year, has consistently performed at the top level, earning placings in Group One races five times, including minor honours in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood for two consecutive summers.

Last season, Facteur Cheval finished a commendable second to Big Rock in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, and a return to Ascot on Qipco British Champions Day, set for October 19, remains a viable option. However, connections are also weighing the exciting prospect of running the horse on dirt for the first time in the Breeders' Cup in California.

Facteur Cheval enjoyed the dirt when tuning up for his victory in the Dubai Turf
Facteur Cheval enjoyed the dirt when tuning up for his victory in the Dubai Turf (PA)

Trainer Jerome Reynier is keeping his options open. "It's possible we could go back to Ascot on October 19, but it depends on how the horse is between now and then," Reynier said. "The Breeders' Cup Classic is also an option. We don’t want to make any definite plans as it depends on the ground and the competition."

Facteur Cheval’s versatility could play a pivotal role in the decision. The French star handles soft conditions exceptionally well, which may influence a return to Ascot for either the QEII Stakes or the Champion Stakes. However, his success on dirt during training at Meydan has sparked interest in testing him on the surface in America. "He trained very well at Meydan on the dirt and doesn’t mind the kickback, so the Breeders’ Cup could be a nice challenge," Reynier added.

With two prestigious races on the table and a decision yet to be made, Facteur Cheval’s team will closely monitor the horse’s condition and the race conditions as they approach the final stretch of the season.

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