Sosie has emerged as the new frontrunner for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at some bookmakers after defeating the previously unbeaten Look De Vega in the Qatar Prix Niel at ParisLongchamp.
Look De Vega, who had been the favourite to maintain his perfect record and solidify his position as the top contender for next month’s Arc, faced a tough challenge. This race marked his first competitive outing since his impressive French Derby win in early June. Ridden by Ronan Thomas and representing Al Shaqab Racing for the first time, the Carlos and Yann Lerner-trained colt led for much of the race but struggled in the closing stages.
Sosie, who had previously finished third behind Look De Vega in the Prix du Jockey Club and won the Grand Prix de Paris since, tracked the leader throughout. Under Maxime Guyon, Sosie excelled over the mile-and-a-half distance, finishing decisively ahead of Delius, with Look De Vega fading to third.
Following this performance, Coral has made Sosie their 7-2 favourite for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, up from 7-1, while Look De Vega has drifted to 6-1 from 3-1.
Guyon commented to Sky Sports Racing: "I’m very pleased with Sosie. He thrives over 2400 metres. The ground was a bit sticky today, but he performs better on good ground. If the conditions are right for the Arc, I believe we have a strong chance. He’s easy to ride, relaxed, and though he doesn’t have a sharp turn of foot, his long speed is impressive. I’m hopeful for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe."
Yann Lerner reflected on Look De Vega’s performance: "It’s disappointing to finish third with an unbeaten horse, but we knew he was carrying extra weight after his break. He was still heavier than ideal this morning, but the race was a good experience. Our main goal is in three weeks, and I’m confident he’ll be in peak condition. There’s less pressure now, and I’m sure we’ll bring a top horse to the Arc."
In the Qatar Prix Foy, Iresine overcame Aidan O’Brien’s Continuous to secure victory. Continuous, who won the St Leger at Doncaster last year and finished fifth in the Arc, was aiming for another strong performance ahead of a potential Arc bid. Despite setting the pace under Christophe Soumillon, the four-year-old faded towards the end and was overtaken by both Iresine and Zarir, with Iresine, ridden by Marie Velon, emerging victorious.