Jean-Claude Rouget and Jerome Reynier have decided not to proceed with their planned merger, as discussions between the two trainers have fallen through.
Rouget, who operates from stables in both Pau and Deauville, is the most successful trainer in European racing history. He has achieved notable victories, including two wins in the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with Sottsass (2020) and Ace Impact (2023).
Meanwhile, Reynier has made a significant mark from his Marseille base, training standout horses like Dubai Turf champion Facteur Cheval and Prix Maurice de Gheest winner Lazzat, alongside the veteran Skalleti.
Due to health issues, Rouget has been absent from the racetrack in recent months. In August, he expressed his intention to share a joint licence with Reynier starting next year. However, that plan has now been abandoned, with Reynier set to expand his operation independently.
"It’s not going to happen; it just wasn’t feasible," Reynier explained. "Organising the partnership proved too challenging, both financially and structurally, especially regarding staff and logistics. We made an effort to put everything in place, but it turned into a logistical nightmare."
Reynier added that he plans to grow his operation in southern France, where he is currently thriving, and will also establish a satellite yard near Paris in the coming months.