All systems go for return to Paris next month.
Sosie has emerged as the new favorite for the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe following a commanding performance in the Qatar Prix Niel at ParisLongchamp, stunning racing fans and bookmakers alike. The three-year-old colt outshined the highly favored Look De Vega, marking a significant shift in the odds for next month’s showpiece event, set to be run over the same iconic course and distance.
Look De Vega, unbeaten before this race and the winner of the French Derby, had entered the Prix Niel as the hot favorite. His remarkable triumph in the French Derby had solidified his position at the top of the ante-post lists for the Arc. However, on his first competitive outing since early June, Look De Vega found himself facing a tough challenge from a formidable opponent in Sosie.
Ridden by Ronan Thomas and donning the colors of Al Shaqab Racing for the first time, Look De Vega took command of the race early on. His familiar front-running style appeared promising, but as the field entered the home straight, it became clear that Sosie, under the expert guidance of Maxime Guyon, was not going to let him run away with the race.
Sosie had shadowed Look De Vega throughout the mile-and-a-half journey, patiently waiting to strike. With every stride, he displayed his endurance and tactical skill, ultimately pulling ahead to claim a decisive victory. Delius, another strong contender, finished second, while Look De Vega, unable to maintain his earlier pace, faded into third.
This result has caused a shake-up in the betting markets, with Coral now listing Sosie as the 7-2 favorite for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, a significant move from his previous 7-1 odds. Look De Vega, meanwhile, has seen his odds lengthen to 6-1 from 3-1, a reflection of the doubts surrounding his performance in the Arc.
Maxime Guyon, jubilant after the victory, shared his thoughts with Sky Sports Racing, praising Sosie's adaptability and potential: "I'm really happy with Sosie. The 2400 meters suit him perfectly. The ground today was a little sticky, and I know he prefers good ground, so if the conditions are favorable for the Arc, I believe we have a great chance to win."
Guyon further highlighted Sosie's strengths, emphasizing his long stride and tactical speed. "He's very easy to ride, very relaxed. He doesn't have that explosive turn of foot, but he has long speed, which is why I chose to go outside. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the Arc."
The win at the Qatar Prix Niel marks a turning point for Sosie, who has now established himself as a major contender for the Arc, a race that holds immense prestige in European horse racing. If he secures victory on October 6, it will be a record-breaking ninth Arc win for legendary French trainer Andre Fabre.
Iresine Triumphs in Qatar Prix Foy, Outlasting Continuous
In another thrilling race at ParisLongchamp, Iresine showcased his staying power by defeating Aidan O'Brien's Continuous in the Qatar Prix Foy. Continuous, who had claimed the St Leger title at Doncaster 12 months ago and finished fifth in last year’s Arc, was seeking redemption and a confidence-boosting win ahead of another potential shot at the Arc.
Christophe Soumillon took the reins for Continuous and set a strong pace, leading for most of the race. However, as the race wore on, Continuous began to tire, allowing Jean-Pierre Gauvin's Iresine and Zarir to close the gap. With an impressive late surge, Iresine overtook Continuous, securing victory under the skilled riding of Marie Velon.
The result dashed Continuous' hopes of securing an Arc entry, as Iresine, being a gelding, is ineligible to run in Europe’s premier middle-distance contest. Zarir, who also finished ahead of Continuous, shares the same ineligibility, leaving O'Brien’s hopes for the Arc resting on his other stable stars.
For fans of the sport, both races at ParisLongchamp offered a glimpse of the high stakes and drama that the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe promises every year. As Sosie prepares for the biggest race of his career, and Look De Vega looks to regroup, all eyes will be on Paris come October 6.
