In the most recent edition of the Weekend Winners programme, the discussion panel turned its full attention to the Sunday showdown at Deauville – the Aga Khan Studs Prix Jacques Le Marois. This Group 1 contest, open to three‑year‑olds and older, is a key mile‑long test that often produces a lasting impact on the European racing calendar. Although Aidan O’Brien’s filly Precise was beaten by Blue Bolt in her previous outing, she entered the betting market as the favourite for the race. O’Brien’s stable had already tasted success in the event when Diego Velázquez piloted a winner in the previous season, so confidence was high that the yard could repeat the feat.
The veteran jockey Ryan Moore was confirmed as the rider for Precise, adding another layer of experience to the entry. The British representation comprised two runners: Zeus Olympios and More Thunder.
From Japan, the field featured Sixpence and Strauss, both of which have shown promise in recent Group races. The French contingent was led by Rayif, trained by Francis‑Henri Graffard, who earned a decisive victory in the French 2000 Guineas earlier in the campaign. Graffard’s colt arrived at Deauville with a strong résumé and a clear objective – to translate his Guineas form onto the slightly longer mile distance. "I’m a big fan of Graffard’s Rayif," one of the panelists explained.
"He’ll be more comfortable back over a mile than he was in the Prix Jean Prat, where he finished fifth over seven furlongs. In the French 2000 Guineas he won impressively, even with a cut under his foot, and if he can bounce back to that level of performance he will be a genuine threat." The commentator went on to note the recent run of Thesecretadversary, who had dropped back to seven furlongs and produced a solid effort despite a setback before Royal Ascot. "He wasn’t ideally placed in that race but showed plenty of stamina and could sit just behind the leaders here. In my view he is undervalued against the older horses." Returning to Rayif, the panelist added, "I’m backing Rayif as well.
The last time he ran he was caught in a bad trip and ended up down the stretch. If he can find a better position and replicate the speed he displayed in the Guineas, he could very well improve his placing." The discussion also touched on the importance of a horse’s preparation leading into a major contest. "This is Rayif’s first run of the season targeting this specific race," the analyst observed. "He hasn’t had any intervening races, so the team can focus on fine‑tuning his fitness.
The ground at Deauville is expected to be quick, which is the opposite of the softer surface he encountered in the Guineas. However, Graffard’s connections have indicated they prefer a firmer track, so the conditions should suit him." In addition to the French and British entries, the panel highlighted a few other stories making headlines in the racing world.
Hollie Doyle suggested that Thunder Call could play a pivotal role in the upcoming Shergar Cup at Ascot, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing. Jamie Lynch’s quintet of horses was also earmarked as worth watching as international stars clash at the same meeting. Beyond the flat racing scene, the conversation drifted to other sporting narratives. Former Premier League striker Kevin Doyle, now a jockey, is chasing Cheltenham Festival glory aboard Augusta Kate and La Bague Au Roi.
Meanwhile, at Ascot’s King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Kalpana managed to defeat Calandagan in a tightly contested finish. The panel also paid tribute to Ryan Moore, who was recently awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognising his contributions to the sport. In the classic sphere, Aidan O’Brien will field four runners in the Derby at Epsom, with Benvenuto Cellini leading the charge.
Returning to Precise, another commentator remarked, "She is a classic O’Brien three‑year‑old filly – battle‑hardened and well‑raced this year. We saw her put in a creditable effort behind Blue Bolt in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville.
My only reservation is the rapid turnaround between races, but she has proven she can compete at the highest level. I think she has a real shot at taking the Group One against the colts." Overall, the panel agreed that the Prix Jacques Le Marois promises a thrilling contest with a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent. Rayif, with his recent Guineas triumph and a mile‑friendly pedigree, stands out as a genuine contender.
Precise, despite her recent loss, brings the weight of O’Brien’s training expertise and a top‑class jockey. The British and Japanese entries add further depth, ensuring that the race will be a true test of speed, stamina, and tactical acumen. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for the full broadcast of Weekend Winners on the At The Races YouTube channel, where the programme will provide live analysis, post‑race interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes insights.
For those who want to keep up with the latest racing news, interviews, and feature stories, the Sky Sports Racing app offers a convenient way to receive updates on the go. In summary, the upcoming Prix Jacques Le Marois at Deauville is shaping up to be a marquee event that could reshape the hierarchy of mile specialists across Europe. With Rayif aiming to replicate his French Guineas brilliance, Precise seeking redemption after a narrow defeat, and a strong contingent of international runners, the race is set to deliver high‑octane excitement for punters and racing enthusiasts alike.