Connections believe that Hong Kong Jockey Club is a good choice for Al Hakeem

Al Hakeem is set to run in the Prix Gontaut-Biron Hong Kong Jockey Club at Deauville on Sunday, with hopes for a return to the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in the fall. Trained by Jean-Claude Rouget, the five-year-old, owned by Al Shaqab Racing, finished fourth in his first European middle-distance race. After a 427-day layoff due to an injury from last year’s Prix d’Harcourt, he returned with a strong second-place finish in La Coupe at ParisLongchamp in June.

The Group Three Prix Gontaut-Biron has been a key target for Al Hakeem’s summer campaign. His performance in Deauville will be crucial in shaping his autumn plans, including entries for the Prix Dollar and the Arc.

Rupert Pritchard-Gordon, Al Shaqab’s French racing consultant, observed that the Prix Gontaut-Biron has been a key target since Al Hakeem began his training. He noted that the race is well-suited to Al Hakeem’s base in Deauville and expressed hope that the horse will replicate his strong performance on his return. Pritchard-Gordon mentioned that Al Hakeem’s recent work has been encouraging, and the horse is showing positive signs. The decision regarding his autumn campaign, including a potential run in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, will be based on his performance in the Prix Gontaut-Biron.