In the most recent edition of Weekend Winners, the discussion panel devoted considerable attention to the upcoming Prix Jacques Le Marois, a Group 1 contest hosted by the Aga Khan Studs at Deauville on Sunday. The race, which is open to three‑year‑olds and older, has already generated a flurry of speculation among pundits and bettors alike. Even though Aidan O'Brien’s filly Precise was beaten by Blue Bolt in her previous outing, she now tops the betting market for the marquee mile event. O'Brien’s stable, which celebrated a win in the same race with Diego Velazquez aboard the previous year, will be eager to repeat that success, and they have secured veteran jockey Ryan Moore to guide Precise to the finish line.
The British representation will be made up of Zeus Olympios and More Thunder, while the Japanese contingent will be embodied by Sixpence and Strauss. On the home side, the most compelling story revolves around Rayif, a Francis‑Henri Graffard‑trained colt who captured the French 2000 Guineas earlier in the season. Graffard’s confidence in his charge is palpable, especially after the impressive Guineas performance, which was achieved despite a cut on the horse’s foot.
"I’m very fond of Rayif, who should be more at home over a mile than he was in his last run in the Prix Jean Prat over seven furlongs," said a Graffard associate. "He won the French 2000 Guineas in a striking fashion, even with a minor injury, and if he can rediscover that form he will be a serious threat in this race." The commentator also noted that Rayif’s recent effort over seven furlongs, a respectable showing behind the winner Thesecretadversary, was encouraging given the colt’s setback before Royal Ascot.
"He wasn’t ideally placed in that race but finished strongly, and there is plenty of pace in the Deauville field to suit his style. He can sit just behind the leaders and then accelerate, and I think he is undervalued against the older horses." Further reinforcing the optimism, another analyst added, "I back Rayif as well. He should bounce back to the level he displayed in the Guineas. In his last start he was caught in a bad trip and found himself too far back.
If he can get a clean run this time, he should be able to build on that earlier victory." The race will also be notable for being Rayif’s first start of the season without any intervening spells, giving his connections a clear target. The ground at Deauville is expected to be quick, which contrasts with the softer surface that helped him on Guineas day. However, Graffard’s team has indicated a preference for firmer ground, suggesting the conditions could actually play to Rayif’s advantage. Beyond the main contenders, the panel also examined Precise’s credentials.
"She is a classic O'Brien three‑year‑old filly – battle‑hardened and well‑raced this year," one expert remarked. "She ran creditably at Deauville behind Blue Bolt in the Prix Rothschild, showing that she can handle the track and the competition. The only worry is the rapid turnaround between her races, but she has proven she possesses the class to take on the older males in a Group One." The broader context of the weekend’s racing coverage was also highlighted.
Sky Sports Racing’s Kevin Blake offered his Ebor Festival tips, focusing on day four at York with three selections, while other headlines included Asfoora’s emotional retirement at the Knavesmire, Bacio’s dominant Nunthorpe Stakes win, and Hollie Doyle’s comments on the condition of the Klassleader in the Ebor. In addition, Super Sprint enthusiasts were treated to varied analyses from Kate, Sam, and Dec, each presenting a distinct case for different York sprint races.
For fans who want to stay up‑to‑date, the network encourages viewers to follow the latest racing news, interviews, and feature stories on their mobile devices. The full episode of Weekend Winners is also available on the At The Races YouTube channel, providing a comprehensive recap of the discussions, expert opinions, and race previews that shape the European racing calendar.
In summary, the Prix Jacques Le Marois promises a thrilling showdown. Precise enters as the betting favorite, backed by a top‑class trainer and jockey, while Rayif offers a compelling home‑grown challenge after his Guineas triumph. The British and Japanese entries add further depth to the field, ensuring that the mile at Deauville will be contested by a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent. As the day approaches, punters and enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see whether the French colt can convert his early‑season promise into a Group 1 victory, or if O’Brien’s seasoned filly will reaffirm her dominance over the mile distance.