Makarova Leads British Sweep in Thrilling Prix de l'Abbaye Victory

Makarova led a British sweep in the Prix de l’Abbaye Longines at ParisLongchamp, delivering a stunning victory under jockey Tom Marquand for trainer Ed Walker. Settled in mid-pack as Bradsell and Desperate Hero battled for the lead in the five-furlong sprint, Makarova moved in the final furlong, charging down the outside to win decisively.

Bradsell, the favourite, held on for second ahead of the fast-finishing Believing. At the same time, Desperate Hero and No Half Measures finished fourth and fifth, respectively—all five top finishers trained in British yards.

"Makarova’s often overlooked," said Walker. "She’s rated 105 by the British handicapper, which is Listed level, but she’s Group One-placed, Group Two-placed, and a Group Three winner. The punters have always underestimated her, she went off at 16-1 today despite finishing third in a Group One last time."

Walker hinted that this would likely be Makarova's final race, adding, "This was probably her last run. She owes us nothing, and today everything came together perfectly."

Marquand reflected on the race, saying, "Everything went perfectly. Once I got behind Bradsell, I knew we were in with a chance. The ground slowed them down just enough to bring her stamina into play. It’s a great result for the owners and Ed, who’s trained her from day one."

On the friendly rivalry with his wife, jockey Hollie Doyle, who rode Bradsell to second place, Marquand commented, "We’ve clashed plenty of times in Group Ones. It’s part of the job—only one winner in each race. I’m sure she’s disappointed Bradsell didn’t win, but pleased for me."

Doyle praised Bradsell’s performance: "He ran a huge race. The ground blunted his turn of foot a bit, but I’m proud of his effort."

Bradsell’s trainer, Archie Watson, added, "He did nothing wrong today. The ground just left him vulnerable to a closer. I’m delighted for Ed and Makarova, she deserved this Group One win."

Looking ahead, Watson indicated that Bradsell could be aimed at the Breeders’ Cup, saying, "A quick, turning five furlongs there would suit him. We’ll see how he comes out of this and go from there."