British Hopefuls Prepare for Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Challenge

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe will feature 19 runners, including last year’s winner Daryz aiming to defend his title against strong British, Irish, and French challengers. Key contenders such as Maltese Cross, Kalpana, and Minnie Hauk highlight the highly competitive field, with several trainers targeting victory in this prestigious event.

The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp is set to take place on Sunday with 19 runners confirmed following the declaration stage. Among the contenders, Daryz, trained by Francis Graffard, enters as the favorite to defend his title after winning the race last year. This year, Daryz has only been defeated once, finishing third at Royal Ascot in June to Ombudsman, but he returned to form with an impressive victory in the Prix Foy at Longchamp, where he defeated Coronation Cup winner Bay City Roller.

A strong British contingent aims to challenge Daryz, led by Maltese Cross and Kalpana. Maltese Cross, trained by William Haggas, has shown steady progress, winning both of his starts since placing second in the Derby behind Christmas Day. His victories include his first group one win in the Grand Prix de Paris followed by a strong performance in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York. Kalpana, trained by Andrew Balding, has also impressed, producing a career-best performance to defeat Calandagan in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot before adding the Yorkshire Oaks to her list of achievements.

The British challenge may be further bolstered by Friendly Soul from the training partnership of John and Thady Gosden. Friendly Soul is expected to be added at the supplementary entry stage after her recent triumph in the Prix Vermeille on Arc Trials day at Longchamp.

Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien has reduced his initial eight-runners to a trio, with Minnie Hauk—last year’s runner-up in the Arc—alongside Irish Derby winner Benvenuto Cellini and French Oaks winner Diamond Necklace all set to represent his stable. Joseph O’Brien, Aidan’s son, will be represented by his Oaks winner, Thundering On.

Jean-Claude Rouget, with two previous Arc wins under his belt—Sottsass in 2020 and Ace Impact in 2023—is aiming for a third victory with Arrow Eagle, which will be his final runner in the prestigious race.

The lineup reflects a competitive field with several top-class contenders from France, Britain, and Ireland, setting the stage for a highly anticipated renewal of one of Europe’s premier horse racing events.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.