Aidan O’Brien is confident that Los Angeles has yet to reach his full potential as the Irish Derby winner leads Ballydoyle’s two-pronged challenge for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. He is set to be joined by Continuous, last year’s fifth-place finisher, while Luxembourg, Opera Singer, and Auguste Rodin will bypass the race.
O’Brien mentioned that Opera Singer might instead contest the 10-furlong Prix de l’Opera, and Auguste Rodin is expected to target the Japan Cup. Los Angeles impressed many with his fourth-place finish in the Irish Champion Stakes over a shorter-than-ideal 10 furlongs, finishing behind Economics.
"We believe Los Angeles and Continuous are our main contenders. The ground likely won’t suit Auguste Rodin or Luxembourg, and Opera Singer may opt for the l'Opera," O’Brien explained.
He remains optimistic about Los Angeles, noting, "We haven't seen the best of him yet. He's a large horse, improving physically, and the mile and a half is ideal. He won the Irish Derby, which is right-handed like Longchamp, and we’re pleased with his prep work."
Continuous, who won last year’s St Leger, finished third in the Prix Foy last time out. "We were pleased with his trial run. Making the pace didn’t suit him, but he’ll fare better in a strongly-run race," O’Brien added.
As for the absentees, O’Brien shared, "Auguste Rodin is still in contention but will likely skip the Arc unless the ground is favourable, heading straight to the Japan Cup instead. Opera Singer could also race in the Opera if conditions don’t suit, as she wouldn’t want bad ground."