In the most recent edition of Weekend Winners, the discussion panel turned its attention to the upcoming Prix Jacques Le Marois, a Group 1 contest run by the Aga Khan Studs at Deauville on Sunday. The show offered a thorough analysis of the field, the form lines, and the strategic considerations that could shape the outcome of this prestigious mile race for three‑year‑olds and older horses. Even though Aidan O'Brien’s filly Precise was beaten by Blue Bolt in her last outing, she now leads the betting market for the mile showdown.
O'Brien’s yard, which secured victory in the same race with Diego Velazquez aboard in the previous season, is confident of repeating the feat. The stable has secured the services of veteran jockey Ryan Moore, whose experience at Deauville and on the French turf adds another layer of optimism for the trainer’s chances.
The British contingent will be represented by Zeus Olympios and More Thunder, while the Japanese flag will be flown by Sixpence and Strauss. On the French side, Rayif, trained by Francis‑Henri Graffard, emerges as a strong contender after his impressive win in the French 2000 Guineas earlier in the campaign.
"I’m very fond of the Graffard‑trained Rayif," one analyst explained. "He will be much more comfortable back over a mile than he was last time when he ran fifth in the Prix Jean Prat over seven furlongs. His Guineas victory was dominant, even with a cut on his foot, and if he can recapture that form he will be a serious threat." The commentator added that Rayif’s recent performance over seven furlongs – a respectable effort given a setback before Royal Ascot – indicated that he still possesses ample speed.
"He wasn’t ideally placed in that race, but he finished strongly and showed plenty of pace. He can sit just behind the leaders and then accelerate, and his odds look generous when you compare him to the older horses in the field." Another voice echoed this sentiment: "I’m backing Rayif as well. I think he can bounce back to the level he displayed in the French Guineas.
The last time he ran, the trip was too short and he found himself in the wrong position. If he can settle and build momentum, he could be back on top." The panel noted that this will be Rayif’s first start of the season aimed directly at the Prix Jacques Le Marois, and that he will have the benefit of a fresh spell without any intervening races. Ground conditions were also a point of discussion.
The Deauville track is expected to be quick, which contrasts with the softer ground that suited Rayif’s Guineas win. However, Graffard’s connections have indicated a preference for better ground, suggesting that the horse may actually thrive on the firmer surface this time around.
Beyond the main contenders, the show highlighted other storylines from the weekend’s racing calendar. Hollie Doyle was quoted as saying 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 five entries for the Shergar Cup were also mentioned, emphasizing the international flavor of the event.
In other news, former Premier League striker Kevin Doyle is now pursuing a career in National Hunt racing, targeting the Cheltenham Festival with his horses Augusta Kate and La Bague Au Roi. Meanwhile, at Ascot, Kalpana secured a victory over Calandagan in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, adding another chapter to the storied race’s history. The panel also paid tribute to legendary jockey Ryan Moore, who was recently awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognizing his contributions to the sport. And as the Epsom Derby approaches, Aidan O’Brien’s stable will field four runners, with Benvenuto Cellini leading the charge for the Irish trainer.
Returning to Precise, one commentator observed: "She is a classic example of an O’Brien three‑year‑old filly – tough, well‑conditioned, and campaigned aggressively throughout the year. She ran creditably at Deauville behind Blue Bolt in the Prix Rothschild, showing she can handle high‑class competition." The only reservation expressed was about the rapid turnaround between races, a factor that could affect her performance despite her proven ability at the Group One level. "If she can manage the quick recovery, I think she has a real chance of beating the colts in this mile race," the analyst concluded. For fans who want to stay up‑to‑date with the latest racing news, interviews, and feature pieces, Sky Sports Racing offers a suite of digital platforms, including a dedicated YouTube channel where the full Weekend Winners program can be streamed.
The channel provides in‑depth coverage of each race, expert analysis, and behind‑the‑scenes insights that help viewers understand the nuances of the sport. In summary, the Prix Jacques Le Marois promises to be a thrilling contest, with a blend of seasoned veterans, promising three‑year‑olds, and international challengers all vying for the coveted title. Rayif’s recent Guineas triumph, Precise’s proven class, and the seasoned experience of jockeys like Ryan Moore set the stage for a memorable day at Deauville.
Whether the quick ground will favour the French miler or the British and Irish runners will ultimately decide the outcome, one thing is clear: the race will deliver high‑quality competition and plenty of excitement for racing enthusiasts worldwide.