In the most recent edition of Weekend Winners, the discussion panel turned its focus to the upcoming Prix Jacques Le Marois, a Group 1 contest staged at Deauville on Sunday and sponsored by Aga Khan Studs. The analysts dissected the form, the contenders, and the tactical nuances that could shape the outcome of this prestigious mile race for three‑year‑olds and older horses. A standout name in the betting market is Precise, a filly trained by the legendary Aidan O'Brien.
Although she was beaten by Blue Bolt in her last outing, O'Brien’s stable remains confident, especially after a victorious effort with Diego Velazquez the previous year. The connections have secured Ryan Moore as the jockey for Precise, adding another layer of experience and class to the mount. The British contingent is represented by Zeus Olympios and More Thunder, while the Japanese side is embodied by Sixpence and Strauss, both of which have shown promise in recent international fixtures.
On the French front, the most compelling story revolves around Rayif, a Francis‑Henri Graffard‑trained colt who captured the French 2000 Guineas earlier in the season. Graffard believes his horse is perfectly suited to the mile distance after a less successful run over seven furlongs in the Prix Jean Prat.
"I’m very fond of Rayif," the trainer explained. "He will be happier back at a mile after finishing fifth in the Prix Jean Prat over seven furlongs. He won the French 2000 Guineas with a clear cut under his foot, and if he can replicate that performance, he will be a serious threat." Graffard continued, noting that Rayif’s recent form has been encouraging despite a setback before Royal Ascot.
"The drop to seven furlongs behind Thesecretadversary was a good run, considering the circumstances. He wasn’t ideally placed in that race but showed a strong finish.
There is plenty of pace in this field, and he can sit just behind the leaders and strike when the moment is right. I think he is undervalued against the older horses here." The trainer’s optimism was echoed by the panel, which agreed that Rayif could rebound to his Guineas‑winning best. "Last time things went wrong – he was down in trip and in the wrong position. I’m hoping he can build on that and find a better rhythm," one analyst remarked.
The discussion also touched on the race conditions. The surface at Deauville is expected to be quick, a stark contrast to the softer ground that underpinned Rayif’s Guineas triumph. However, Graffard’s team has indicated a preference for firmer footing, suggesting the current conditions may actually play to the colt’s strengths. In addition to the main contenders, the panel examined Precise’s prospects.
"She is a classic O'Brien three‑year‑old filly – battle‑hardened and campaigned strongly this year," said a commentator. "We saw her run credibly at Deauville behind Blue Bolt in the Prix Rothschild.
My only concern is the rapid turnaround between races, but she has shown she can compete at this level. She could very well take on the colts and win the Group One." The broader racing schedule was also highlighted, with references to upcoming events such as the Juddmonte International, where Constitution River and Ombudsman are set to headline, and the Ebor Festival, where Sky Sports Racing expert Kevin Blake offered his selections for York’s opening day. Meanwhile, Hollie Doyle’s blog discussed the potential of Constitution River in the Juddmonte International showdown.
For fans who want to stay up‑to‑date, the show reminded viewers that all the latest racing news, interviews, and feature stories are available on mobile devices, and that full episodes of Weekend Winners can be streamed on the At The Races YouTube channel. In summary, the Prix Jacques Le Marois promises a thrilling contest with a blend of seasoned older horses and emerging three‑year‑olds. Rayif, backed by his Guineas win and a mile‑friendly pedigree, stands out as a strong candidate to reclaim his top form.
Precise, despite a recent defeat, carries the weight of O'Brien’s reputation and a top‑class jockey. The British and Japanese entries add depth and international flair, ensuring that the race will be a true test of speed, stamina, and tactical acumen. The quick Deauville surface could be the decisive factor, favoring horses that thrive on firmer ground.
As the field lines up, punters and enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see which horse can seize the coveted Prix Jacques Le Marois trophy.