Daryz secured a second consecutive victory in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on Sunday at Longchamp Racecourse, affirming his status among the sport’s elite. The four-year-old colt, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard and ridden by Mickael Barzalona, produced a commanding finish to edge past Bay City Roller by one and a quarter lengths in front of a Parisian crowd under clear skies.

Since World War II, only three colts have successfully defended their Arc titles, with Alleged achieving the feat in 1977 and 1978. Daryz, a son of Sea The Stars owned by Princess Zahra Aga Khan, joined this exclusive group with the win. The victory marked his eighth at Longchamp from nine starts, highlighting his affinity for the course. His time was recorded at 2 minutes 27.11 seconds, a strong performance though not on par with some of the fastest Arcs in history.

Princess Zahra Aga Khan, who assumed control of the Aga Khan Studs following her father’s passing last year, expressed confidence through the race, noting Daryz’s remarkable determination and speed. While acknowledging the risks of continuing to race such a valuable horse, she indicated that a retirement to stud is likely, underscoring the colt’s value beyond the racetrack. Graffard echoed a desire to attempt a rare third Arc win but conceded that it may not be permitted given the colt’s already distinguished record.

Bay City Roller’s trainer, George Scott, acknowledged the quality of the winner while remaining optimistic about his own charge’s prospects in the upcoming Champion Stakes at Ascot. Several British-trained runners completed the placings, with Friendly Soul, Kalpana, and Maltese Cross finishing fourth, fifth, and sixth respectively. Additionally, British connections enjoyed success in other major races that day, with Miss Yechance winning the Prix de l’Abbaye and Miss Scott taking the Prix de l’Opera.

Commentators have placed Daryz’s achievement in historical context, noting his second Arc victory is a rare accomplishment that invites comparison to past greats such as Alleged, Enable, and Treve. While some observers noted that Daryz’s overall career includes less consistency—particularly in overseas starts—than these legendary horses, his performance in Sunday’s race was widely regarded as an impressive display of championship calibre.

Graffard described Daryz as the best horse he has trained, emphasizing the emotional weight carried into the race. The colt’s ability to produce a decisive finishing burst under pressure was a defining feature of the contest, cementing his reputation. Looking ahead, the racing world will closely watch decisions regarding Daryz’s future, balancing the potential for further accolades on the track against his strong prospects as a stallion.