Bluestocking rewarded the faith of her connections with a stunning victory in the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. Trained by Ralph Beckett for owner-breeders Juddmonte, the filly was a late entry to the prestigious race after her victory in the Prix Vermeille over the same course and distance.
Starting at 5-1 under jockey Rossa Ryan, Bluestocking enjoyed a smooth trip, tracking Los Angeles before fending off a late charge from Aventure to secure a record seventh Arc triumph for the late Khalid Abdullah’s storied racing operation.
Los Angeles finished third for Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore, while race favourite Sosie came in fourth for André Fabre.
"It’s a testament to her resilience as much as anything," said Beckett. "To start in May, compete in races like the King George and the Juddmonte International, suffer defeats, and then come back like this is extraordinary. After just three weeks since the Vermeille, to perform like that is incredible—she's an extraordinary horse."
"The draw was in our favour, and Rossa executed the plan perfectly. Everything just fell into place. Last year, Westover hit the front with a furlong to go, and I was waiting for someone to catch her, but today, no one did. This is the best day we've ever had, without a doubt."
Beckett also praised Juddmonte’s team: "Barry Mahon and the Juddmonte operation are fantastic to work with—there's never any pressure. Good horses almost train themselves. I never thought she’d win, but she did."
A jubilant Ryan, speaking to Equidia after crossing the finish line, said: "I know people overlooked her, but she’s consistently been at the top level and proved today that she’s something special. This filly has meant so much to my career, and to have my family here makes it all the more surreal."
Juddmonte’s European racing manager, Barry Mahon, added: "It’s unbelievable—the job Ralph has done with this filly all year has been remarkable. This is Juddmonte’s seventh Arc win, making them the most successful owner in the race’s history. Rossa had the perfect plan, and she had a smooth run throughout. It’s a brilliant day."