Los Angeles is poised to lead Ballydoyle's charge in next Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, with Auguste Rodin likely to remain in contention should the ground at ParisLongchamp turn quick.
Aidan O’Brien, who has won Europe’s most lucrative middle-distance race twice—with Dylan Thomas in 2007 and Found in 2016—will also field this year’s Irish Derby winner, Luxembourg, along with last year’s St Leger champion, Continuous. O’Brien is considering adding Auguste Rodin to his lineup as well.
The six-time Group One winner is set to retire to stud after the Japan Cup later this fall, but a race in France could serve as a perfect final preparation if the ground conditions suit him.
O’Brien noted, "The plan is for Los Angeles to run, but we’ve kept Auguste Rodin in just in case the ground is on the fast side, which is unlikely. I didn’t keep him in last year when the ground ended up quickly, so I want to avoid that mistake this time."
He added that while Rodin is likely headed straight to Japan, he could race at Longchamp if the conditions are favourable. "The plan is for Continuous to go, and probably Luxembourg as well."
Notably absent from the Arc lineup will be star stayer Kyprios and Nassau Stakes winner Opera Singer. Kyprios will aim to reclaim his impressive Prix du Cadran victory from two years ago, while Opera Singer is set to return to 10 furlongs for the Prix de l’Opera after a challenging outing in the Prix Vermeille.
O’Brien confirmed, "Kyprios will target the Cadran. If Opera Singer runs, it will likely be in the mile-and-a-quarter fillies’ race."