Francis‑Henri Graffard has announced that Daryz will aim for a Royal Ascot campaign following a flawless start to his season in the Prix Ganay at Longchamp, Paris. The four‑year‑old, a son of the legendary Sea The Stars, has already shown the makings of a superstar after capturing his first four starts last year. Although he fell short in the Juddmonte International at York and was subsequently beaten on his home debut, Daryz rebounded spectacularly by clinching a thrilling victory in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in October. In the recent 10‑furlong Group One at Longchamp, Daryz entered as the overwhelming favourite.
He travelled with authority from the start, and the only question was when jockey Mickael Barzalona would ask him to accelerate. The moment Barzalona gave the signal, the horse responded instantly, shifting into a higher gear and pulling away to secure a decisive win. Bright Picture, who had been ridden patiently throughout, finished a clear second, while the Group One‑winning mare Aventure took third place.
Nemone Routh, manager for the Aga Khan Studs – the owners of Daryz in France – told the Press Association, "We are absolutely delighted with his performance in this season‑opening race; it was a very impressive display." She added, "We have always believed he possesses the class to be a top‑level performer, and this race confirms that belief. He still has room to improve this year, and we expect him to progress further as the season unfolds." Routh emphasized the strategic thinking behind keeping Daryz in training rather than retiring him after his Arc triumph.
"We wanted to demonstrate that his Arc win was not a one‑off. He is a very special horse, and we felt it was important to prove to everyone that his ability is genuine and sustainable," she said. "Today he has shown that he belongs in Group One company and can compete at the highest level consistently." Following his Prix Ganay success, Daryz’s odds were cut dramatically, moving from 10‑1 to 5‑1 for a potential repeat of his Arc victory later in the autumn. However, his connections have already plotted a series of top‑class targets before the big end‑of‑year race.
The next logical step appears to be the Prix Aga Khan IV – previously known as the Prix d’Ispahan – scheduled for next month. This race, run over nine and a half furlongs, will serve as a sharpener for the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot in June.
Routh explained, "We intend to drop the distance even further for the Aga Khan IV. The race is a touch shorter than the Ganay, and Daryz thrives on a strong, honest pace.
He loves to stretch his legs and can adapt to any tempo a jockey sets." She continued, "We have no doubt he will handle the shorter trip with ease. The race fits perfectly into his preparation schedule, giving him a timely test before the Prince of Wales’s Stakes.
Our plan for the first half of the year is clear: the Ganay, then the Aga Khan IV, followed by Ascot. The second half of the season is still being mapped out, but this sequence will give Daryz the best chance to peak at the right moment." The trainer’s confidence in Daryz’s versatility is underscored by his racing style. He is known to settle comfortably in the early stages, then unleash a powerful turn of foot when asked. Barzalona has praised the colt’s willingness to follow any pace, noting that the horse appears happiest when allowed to run freely and dictate terms.
This adaptability makes him an ideal candidate for the varied distances and tactical scenarios that characterize Royal Ascot meetings. Looking ahead, the connections are also keeping an eye on other potential Group One engagements, but the Prince of Wales’s Stakes remains the centerpiece of their spring campaign. Success at Ascot would not only cement Daryz’s status as a leading middle‑distance performer but also enhance his breeding value, given his illustrious pedigree. In summary, after a commanding victory in the Prix Ganay, Daryz is poised to target the Prince of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot, with the Prix Aga Khan IV serving as a crucial preparatory step.
His connections remain optimistic about his continued improvement and are eager to showcase his talent on one of the sport’s most prestigious stages.