Al Hakeem has been retired

Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe contender Al Hakeem has been retired by Al Shaqab Racing to stand at stud in France.

Trained by Jean-Claude Rouget, the Siyouni colt finished fourth in the 2022 Arc, just under three lengths behind Alpinista. He also placed fourth in that year’s French Derby and secured a Group Two victory in the Prix Guillaume d’Ornano at Deauville.

After suffering a significant injury due to being struck by another horse, Al Hakeem spent over a year on the sidelines but made a successful return last month, winning a Group Three at Deauville and bringing his career total to five wins from ten starts.

Rouget praised the horse, stating, "Al Hakeem is a horse of great heart and courage. His recovery from a serious injury to return to Group-winning form speaks volumes about his character. He possesses all the attributes of a future champion sire."

The five-year-old will return to Haras de Bouquetot for the 2025 breeding season. Stud manager Benoit Jeffroy expressed pride in welcoming him back, noting his exceptional pedigree and announcing that breeding rights will be available for sale.