Just seven runners will line up for Tuesday’s Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris (2,400m) at ParisLongchamp, but despite the compact field, the quality is exceptional with France, Britain and Ireland all represented in one of Europe’s premier staying tests for three-year-olds. The €600,000 feature is traditionally run on Bastille Day and has been won by champions such as Hurricane Lane, Japan, Kew Gardens, Feed The Flame and last year’s victor Leffard.
This year’s renewal shapes as a fascinating clash between proven Classic performers and rapidly improving middle-distance prospects.
British raider Maltese Cross heads across the Channel after a superb runner-up finish in the Epsom Derby. William Haggas has deliberately targeted this race since Epsom, believing the extra emphasis on stamina over 2,400 metres at ParisLongchamp could be ideal. He brings the strongest Classic form into the race and is sure to attract plenty of support.
Ireland is represented by the Aidan O’Brien-trained Causeway, who has won five of his six career starts and announced himself as a genuine Group 1 contender with victory in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot. Ballydoyle has an outstanding record in the Grand Prix de Paris, having won the race with Imperial Monarch, Kew Gardens, Japan and Mogul, making Causeway a major player.
The home team, however, is far from short of talent.
Varandir remains unbeaten in three starts and stamped himself as one of France’s brightest staying prospects when taking the Prix Hocquart over this course and distance. Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard for the Aga Khan operation, he has done little wrong and now steps onto the biggest stage of his career.
Alam has perhaps flown slightly under the radar. Trained by Mikel Delzangles, the Prix Greffulhe winner produced an eye-catching finish when fifth in a high-quality Prix du Jockey Club after overcoming a difficult barrier draw. Connections believe the return to 2,400 metres will suit perfectly, while champion jockey Pierre-Charles Boudot takes over in the saddle for the first time.
Limestone arrives as another progressive stayer after capturing the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and now gets the opportunity to test himself at the highest level over a similar distance. His proven stamina makes him an intriguing contender if the tempo is genuine.
The remaining pair, Ancient Egypt and Space Waltz, complete a field where every runner brings legitimate credentials. Ancient Egypt has consistently performed in quality company throughout the season, while Space Waltz represents connections with an outstanding historical record in this race and cannot be dismissed in what appears an open renewal.
With Derby form, Royal Ascot winners and France’s emerging staying stars all converging on ParisLongchamp, Tuesday’s Grand Prix de Paris promises to be one of the strongest editions of recent years.
Whether it is Maltese Cross looking to convert elite Classic form into Group 1 success, Causeway continuing Ballydoyle’s remarkable record, or unbeaten French hope Varandir defending home honours, racing fans are set for a fascinating international contest.
As always, iRACE will have comprehensive form, statistics and race analysis available for one of France’s premier races.
By Scott Bailey – iRACE
