Globetrotting star Dunaden is likely to have his last start in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp in October.
The Mikel Delzangles-trained seven-year-old has picked up almost STG5 million ($A8.4 million) prize money during a fantastic career, winning a Melbourne Cup, a Caulfield Cup and a Hong Kong Vase along the way.
He ran his usual solid race in Sunday’s Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud, finishing strongly to fill the runner-up spot behind German runner Novellist, and it seems likely he will now have just two more runs before retirement beckons.
David Redvers, racing manager for owner Sheikh Fahad’s Pearl Bloodstock operation, said Dunaden was coming to the end of his career.
“We were delighted with how he ran,” Redvers said.
“He didn’t travel through the race like he has done previously, but he finished with his usual gusto and determination.
“He was a bit tired afterwards and I think we’re going to give him a well-earned mid-season break before bringing him back for one of the Arc trials, maybe the Prix Foy.
“After that he’ll run the Arc and, speaking to Sheikh Fahad, the thinking is that will be his last race before he’s retired.
“He’s been the most magnificent servant.”
