Kevin Blake, a respected voice in the world of thoroughbred racing, will be on the ground in Paris for the prestigious Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. While the main event at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday draws the global spotlight, Blake has highlighted three undercard races that he believes deserve attention.
All of the action will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing, giving fans an opportunity to follow his selections in real time. The Arc weekend at Longchamp is universally regarded as one of the crown jewels of the racing calendar. The headline race, the Arc itself, is a true test of class and stamina, but the supporting card is equally rich, featuring several Group 1 contests that showcase the sport’s rising stars and seasoned campaigners. Recent weather patterns have been unusually dry, leaving the turf in a condition that can be described as good to firm – a surface that typically produces speedy, cleanly run races.
Blake’s first recommendation is for the Prix de l'Abbaye de Longchamp Longines, scheduled for 1:47 p.m. This sprint, though perhaps not as strong as in previous years, still carries the usual importance of a good draw.
Blake points out that a low stall can make a decisive difference over five furlongs, and he backs the Francis‑Henri Graffard‑trained filly SHIRI, who starts from stall four. SHIRI is the daughter of Mehmas, a sire known for producing fast, precocious runners.
This season she has shown marked progress, especially after being dropped back to five furlongs. She captured a Listed victory at Deauville in impressive fashion and then finished a close second to Naana’s Shadow in a Group 3 at the same course and distance. With a favourable draw and a proven ability to accelerate sharply in the final stages, Blake believes SHIRI has a strong chance of delivering a winning performance. The second pick is for the Prix de l'Opera Longines at 3:50 p.m., a race that traditionally pits the best older fillies and mares against each other.
The field includes a solid contingent of three‑year‑olds, but the standout on paper is the Christophe Ferland‑trained Aventure, a proven Group‑level performer. Nevertheless, Blake sees an opportunity for an emerging talent to upset the odds: the John and Thady Gosden‑trained MISS SCOTT. Miss Scott is a daughter of Night of Thunder, a sire whose progeny often improve with each start.
She has been carefully managed early in her career, taking measured steps that have resulted in a steady upward trajectory. Her most recent outing saw her claim the Snow Fairy Fillies' Stakes at the Curragh, a performance that highlighted her turn of foot and stamina over a slightly longer distance. Blake argues that returning to a trip similar to the Opera will suit her perfectly, and while she may need to produce a career‑best effort to challenge a fully‑fit Aventure, a surprise upset would not be out of the question.
The final recommendation focuses on the Qatar Prix de la Forêt at 4:25 p.m., a race that often proves sharper than many anticipate. Although advertised as a seven‑furlong contest, the actual distance is a touch shorter, and a significant portion of the course runs downhill, emphasizing speed over stamina. With the ground expected to be firmer than usual for this meeting, horses with rapid acceleration will have the edge. Blake’s choice is the Fozzy Stack‑trained THESECRETADVERSARY, a son of the brilliant St Mark’s Basilica.
This colt has remained unbeaten in his three starts over trips shorter than a mile this season, including victories in the Jersey Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Prix Jean Prat at Deauville. While he has suffered three defeats in Group 1 races over a mile, those results do not diminish his proven effectiveness over shorter distances. The combination of a firm surface, a downhill finish, and a distance that plays to his strengths makes the Prix de la Forêt an ideal target for THESECRETADVERSARY, and Blake feels confident that the horse stands a very good chance of adding another win to his record. In summary, Kevin Blake’s undercard selections for the Arc weekend blend proven form, advantageous draws, and strategic distance considerations.
SHIRI’s low stall and sprinting pedigree, MISS SCOTT’s progressive improvement and suitability for the Opera distance, and THESECRETADVERSARY’s unbeaten record over short trips all align with the conditions expected at Longchamp. Viewers can follow these races live on Sky Sports Racing, where Blake’s insights will be available alongside the on‑track action.
For the best viewing experience, a Chrome browser is recommended to ensure smooth playback of the video streams. Whether you are a seasoned punter or a casual fan, Blake’s picks provide a compelling roadmap to some of the most exciting contests on the Arc card, promising both intrigue and the potential for rewarding outcomes.