Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe 2024: Horse-by-Horse Guide

As the excitement builds for the 2024 Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, set to take place at the iconic ParisLongchamp on Sunday, October 6, racing enthusiasts are keen to dissect the final declarations and draw. With a staggering winner’s purse of £2,484,348, this prestigious race promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Below, we provide a detailed horse-by-horse guide to the contenders vying for glory in this year’s Arc.

ZARAKEM (Jerome Reynier) – Stall 1

Odds: 50/1
Zarakem enters the race after a disappointing performance in the Juddmonte International, where he finished well behind the winner, City Of Troy. However, his earlier effort at Royal Ascot, where he pushed Auguste Rodin to the limit, suggests he has potential. A previous winner of a Group 2 on heavy ground at Longchamp, he has the course experience but will need to significantly improve to be competitive from stall one.

HAYA ZARK (Adrien Fouassier) – Stall 13

Odds: 50/1
This local contender boasts a strong record at Longchamp, having won the Prix Ganay earlier this year. Despite a recent third-place finish in a Group 3, his performance in the 2023 Arc, where he finished last, raises concerns. He will need to find a new level to contend with the top horses in this year’s race.

FANTASTIC MOON (Sarah Steinberg) – Stall 2

Odds: 25/1
Fantastic Moon had a lackluster showing in last year’s Arc, finishing 11th. However, he rebounded with a strong victory over Dubai Honour in early September. His sharp turn of foot could be a significant asset, but he will need favorable ground conditions to maximize his chances.

AL RIFFA (Joseph O’Brien) – Stall 9

Odds: 10/1
A horse with considerable talent, Al Riffa has shown promise throughout his career, including a close second to Ace Impact in a Group 3. His recent form is encouraging, highlighted by a dominant win in a German Group 1. With the potential for further improvement, he cannot be overlooked.

SEVENNA’S KNIGHT (Andre Fabre) – Stall 12

Odds: 50/1
A late bloomer, Sevenna’s Knight has excelled in staying races, winning his last three starts at Longchamp. However, he struggled when dropped back to a shorter trip earlier this year. If the ground is testing, he could be a contender, especially if he takes the lead early.

CONTINUOUS (Aidan O’Brien) – Stall 14

Odds: 25/1
Continuous had a successful 2023, winning the Great Voltigeur and St Leger. However, he has not shown the same level of form this season, finishing fifth in last year’s Arc and struggling in recent outings. He appears to be in a supporting role this time around.

BLUESTOCKING (Ralph Beckett) – Stall 3

Odds: 12/1
Bluestocking has been a model of consistency, winning three races this season, including two Group 1s. Her gutsy victory in the Prix Vermeille positions her as a serious contender. With a favorable draw, she is expected to be in the mix once again.

MQSE DE SEVIGNE (Andre Fabre) – Stall 16

Odds: 20/1
This five-year-old mare has enjoyed success in Group 1 races but faces a significant challenge in terms of stamina for this trip. While she has shown improvement this season, her ability to handle the distance remains a question mark.

LOOK DE VEGA (Carlos and Yann Lerner) – Stall 8

Odds: 5/1
Look De Vega burst onto the scene with a stunning victory in the Prix du Jockey Club. After a rusty return in the Prix Niel, he is expected to be sharper for this race. His pedigree suggests he may not be a guaranteed stayer, but he has the potential to surprise.

SHIN EMPEROR (Yoshito Yahagi) – Stall 11

Odds: 6/1
Shin Emperor represents Japan’s growing strength in turf racing. With a strong pedigree and a solid performance in the Irish Champion Stakes, he is well-positioned to make a significant impact if he can handle the longer trip and softer ground.

SUNWAY (David Menuisier) – Stall 15

Odds: 40/1
Sunway has shown consistency this season but has yet to find the winner’s circle since his juvenile victories. His recent third in the St Leger suggests he is improving, but he may lack the speed needed for the Arc.

DELIUS (Jean-Claude Rouget) – Stall 7

Odds: 10/1
Delius has made a strong impression this season, with three straight wins leading up to a solid performance in the Prix Niel. He is expected to thrive in a strongly-run race on testing ground, making him a contender to watch.

SOSIE (Andre Fabre) – Stall 5

Odds: 5/1
Sosie has shown immense potential this season, with a perfect record at Longchamp. His recent victory in the Prix Niel positions him as a serious threat, and he is expected to perform well from a favorable draw.

LOS ANGELES (Aidan O’Brien) – Stall 10

Odds: 6/1
Los Angeles has been impressive this season, with a strong record and a solid performance in the Derby. He is well-suited to the trip and ground conditions, making him a strong contender for the win.

SURVIE (Nicolas Clement) – Stall 6

Odds: 66/1
Survie has shown promise but will need to significantly improve to compete at this level. Her recent performances have not been at the same caliber as her rivals, making her a long shot.

AVENTURE (Christophe Ferland) – Stall 4

Odds: 16/1
Aventure is a consistent filly with proven stamina. Her recent form suggests she is still improving, and she could surprise in this competitive field.

Verdict

The market seems to favor Sosie and Look De Vega, but Delius could be the dark horse to watch. Los Angeles, with his strong pedigree and recent form, is also expected to perform well. Sevenna’s Knight may surprise at a long price, making this year’s Arc an exciting contest to follow.

As the race day approaches, all eyes will be on these contenders as they prepare to battle for one of the most coveted prizes in horse racing.