French star Cirrus des Aigles became the first horse to win the Group Two Prix Dollar at Longchamp three times and set himself up for a return to England for the Champions Stakes.
The seven-year-old gelding, who was recording his 18th career win, dispelled any notions of a waning of his talent as he coasted to victory under Christophe Soumillon.
Soumillon, who only regained the ride on him earlier this year, had the ideal preparation for his ride on Japanese star Orfevre in Europe’s most prestigious race the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on Sunday as Cirrus completed a Group Two race double for him.
“This horse is remarkable. I felt like he had four extra gears compared to the other runners when I sent him to the front two furlongs out,” Soumillon said.
“Like all intelligent horses he knows when to make the effort and when to restrain himself, he accepts his limits.
“We have the target of the Champion Stakes at Ascot in a fortnight and as long as it isn’t too soft there we have a real chance as this year there is no Frankel!”.
Soumillon rode Cirrus des Aigles to victory in the Champion Stakes two years ago but wasn’t on him when he finished second to the unbeaten Frankel last year.
Cirrus des Aigles’ trainer Corinne Barbe was almost in tears at the latest chapter in the horse’s extraordinary career.
“He really touches me this horse, with his generous spirit, his courage and his ability, he is truly very special,” she said.
Soumillon had got his weekend off in perfect style when he brought the Aga Khan-owned Valirann home in the Group Two Prix Chaudenay for his fourth successive win
