Table of Contents
- Melbourne Cup & Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
- Japanese Hopefuls
- Templegate’s Runner-by-Runner Guide
- Templegate’s Prediction
- Templegate’s Longchamp Tips
- Gamble Responsibly
If the Melbourne Cup is the race that halts a nation, then perhaps the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is the race that captivates an entire continent.
And Japan!
Bluestocking was an outstanding winner of the Arc for trainer Ralph Beckett and jockey Rossa Ryan last year.
The Japanese have yet to claim victory in the prestigious Group 1 race at Longchamp in Paris, but this year they present a formidable three-pronged challenge.
However, the French contingent is equally daunting, along with competitors from Britain and Ireland.
The draw has been completed, all preparations are finalized, and now it’s time for Templegate to identify a winner for you.
Below, he evaluates each horse and assigns a rating out of five stars—one being the lowest and five the highest.
His top tip for the 3.05pm contest, along with his 1-2-3 prediction, can be found at the end of this article.
You will also discover his selections for all the major races in the French capital below.
Templegate’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Runner-by-Runner Guide
GIAVELLOTTO 2
A LOT to accomplish. Stays well, effective on both all-weather and turf, but needs to improve in this competitive field.
Will likely perform admirably but has a significant challenge ahead.
WHITE BIRCH 2
WHITE is out. Secured a Group 1 victory at The Curragh last year, but form has declined this season.
This distance suits, but softer ground would be preferable. Appears vulnerable against stronger contenders.
ARROW EAGLE 1
BALD Eagle. Showed progression earlier in the season with French Group wins but was well beaten in the Prix Foy last time.
Stays this distance but seems a bit outclassed at this level.
SOSIE 4
SO good. A French Group 1 star with wins in the Prix Ganay and Ispahan, finished a close second in the Prix Foy.
Handles any ground, the distance is ideal, and has strong chances of matching last year’s fourth-place finish.
LOS ANGELES 2
LOS cause. A Ballydoyle colt with Group 1 wins at Curragh this year and placed third in this race last year.
Seems to have regressed since then and may only be a place contender at best.
BYZANTINE DREAM 5
A DREAM come true. A Japanese contender at the peak of his powers after a hard-fought win in the Prix Foy.
Demonstrates proven stamina and agility, capable of handling any ground. An improving horse looking poised to make a significant impact despite a challenging draw.
QUISISANA 3
QUIS has answers. An improving mare on a five-race winning streak, most recently triumphing in the Prix Jean Romanet.
Versatile in terms of ground conditions, stays 12f, but faces a serious class increase today. An outsider who may perform commendably without winning.
KALPANA 3
HOT Pan. A consistent filly, excellent second in the King George, proven over 12f, and adaptable to all surfaces.
Must recover from a subpar performance last time but cannot be dismissed as an each-way contender.
AVENTURE 4
A TURE thing. Last year’s Arc runner-up and multiple Group winner this season, including a latest victory in the Vermeille.
Proven here, she has strong stamina, is consistent, and is very likely to deliver another strong performance.
DARYZ 3
DAR may star. An unexposed colt with an unbeaten spring and a close second in a Group 3 here last time.
Bred for this distance and still improving, but this may be a year early for him.
LEFFARD 3
ARD to fault. Winner of the Grand Prix de Paris and better than his sixth-place finish in the Prix Niel suggests.
Stays this distance well and is adaptable to ground conditions. Could sneak into contention with further improvement.
CUALIFICAR 4
CAR motors. Secured a comfortable victory in the Prix Niel last time, enjoying the step up to this distance.
Versatile in ground conditions, lightly raced, and still progressing. A major French contender if delivering another career-best under Buick.
HOTAZHELL 1
COLD on Hot. Last year’s Futurity Trophy winner is facing a tough challenge in his debut over 1m4f.
The yard is respected, but it would be surprising if he is up to this level.
CROIX DU NORD 4
NORD star. Japanese Derby winner over this distance, needed every yard of 1m2f to narrowly defeat Daryz last time.
This distance will suit him much better, and he handles any ground. His best form brings him
