The French don’t tend to launch a numerically large assault on Royal Ascot and they are pretty selective. It could be a different story this year however and we could see an abnormally strong challenge from the other side of the channel. They’re certainly not here to make up the numbers so we’ve picked out four France-based raiders that are well worth looking out for. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Facteur Cheval announced himself as a Group 1 horse with victory in the Dubai Turf in March. That was a career best effort from the five-year-old and we haven’t seen him since. The drop back to a mile should suit as he only just lasted home over 1m1f at Meydan. Second to Paddington in the Sussex Stakes last year, that’s some of the best form on offer and he may have improved since.
Metropolitan got the better of Roger Teal’s Dancing Gemini in the French 2000 Guineas and it’s very telling that connections have supplemented him for this. Mario Baratti’s three-year-old is lightly raced enough to suggest further progress could be on the cards. This shaping up to be one of the hottest races of the week but he surely has every chance.
Horizon Dore is one that probably has a bit to find at the top level but it’s an open renewal. Ante-post favourite Auguste Rodin is short enough and the French raider is a reasonable alternative. Patrice Cottier’s four-year-old was beaten less than a length when fifth in the Group 1 Prix Ganay and should be suited by a stronger gallop.
Ramateulle was strides away from winning the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket. She paid the price for racing too keenly early on and lost two places just before the line. The daughter of Justify will have every chance if settling better in early stages here. This race is packed with quality fillies and Christopher Head’s three-year-old is certainly a strong addition.
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