O’Brien has several options for stable star Kyprios

Aidan O’Brien hasn’t ruled out a potential bid for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with Kyprios, following the popular stayer’s triumphant return to form in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger at the Curragh.

Kyprios, a son of Galileo, dominated in 2022 with victories in the Gold Cup, Goodwood Cup, Irish St Leger, and Prix du Cadran on Arc weekend at ParisLongchamp. However, he faced a serious injury the next spring and struggled on his comeback in the Irish Leger and at Champions Day at Ascot, though he performed admirably under the circumstances.

This season, the six-year-old has made a remarkable comeback, regaining the Gold Cup and Goodwood Cup. Unsurprisingly, he was the 2-5 favourite for the final Classic of the year on home turf.

In the one-mile-six-furlong race, Kyprios followed his stablemate The Euphrates before taking the lead in the home straight. Despite a strong challenge from Giavellotto, who was travelling well under Oisin Murphy, Kyprios surged ahead to win by two and a quarter lengths. Willie Mullins-trained Vauban finished strongly from the rear to take third place.

O’Brien praised Kyprios, saying, "He’s incredibly special, and today showed just how much. Every year he seems to improve, and Ryan said he won very easily."

"He’s a once-in-a-lifetime horse. To maintain his class and stamina over distances like the Ascot Gold Cup is remarkable. He’s genuinely exceptional and one in a million."

Paddy Power has made Kyprios their 4-6 favourite for the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup and offered 25-1 odds for the Arc.

When asked about potential future runs, O’Brien said, "I’m not sure yet; it depends on how he is and what we decide. He’s very fresh and could potentially run in the Arc. We need to be cautious and let him guide us based on his condition and preferences."

Reflecting on last year’s challenges, O’Brien explained, "Kyprios had an infection in a joint capsule. Eva (Maria Bucher-Haefner of Moyglare Stud) was incredibly patient, and there was no pressure to rush him back. The time and care given to him were crucial in his recovery."

Bucher-Haefner, whose family acquired Moyglare in 1962, added, "It’s wonderful to see him win here today. He was quite ill last year, and the team’s efforts to rehabilitate him have been outstanding."

When asked about Kyprios’s future, she said, "I’d love to see him race again next year. It’s always a pleasure to see such a talented horse."