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| Staff Writer |
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Facteur Cheval is set to benefit from the soft ground as he attempts to improve on last year's runner-up finish in the Gr.1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot. The 5YO, trained by Jerome Reynier, chased home Big Rock in the 2023 renewal and has since proven himself a top-level contender with victory in the Dubai Turf earlier this year.
Barry Irwin, CEO of Team Valor International, who co-own the Ribchester gelding with Gary Barber, expressed optimism about the anticipated conditions: "We're looking forward to it and hopefully the expected rain will materialise because I think we're better suited to it than the favourite (Charyn). We believe the rain will allow Facteur Cheval to run his best race."
The Queen Elizabeth II Stakes has a rich history of producing champion milers. Notable past winners include Frankel, who dominated the 2011 edition before going on to an undefeated career, and Roaring Lion, who clinched the title in 2018 as part of his stellar three-year-old campaign.
Meanwhile, the Gr.1 Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes has attracted Quantanamera, trained by former jockey Andreas Suborics. The Lope De Vega mare enters the race on the back of an impressive four-length victory in the Gr.2 Grand Prix de Deauville.
Suborics, who rode at Ascot during his career, including mounts on Paolini and Overdose, is relishing his return as a trainer: "She is fine, her preparation has been perfect. We have been looking forward to this race and the ground is ideal for her. She's in great condition and everything has gone brilliantly with her."
Looking ahead, Facteur Cheval's connections are eyeing potential dirt races in the Middle East. "Next year, what we're looking at is to try him on dirt," Irwin revealed. "Over the winter we will try him on the dirt at least once, either in Saudi Arabia, Dubai or both."
The Qipco British Champions Day at Ascot continues to attract top international talent, with both Facteur Cheval and Quantanamera adding a continental flavour to the prestigious event. As the soft ground plays into their hands, racing fans can anticipate thrilling contests in both the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes and the Fillies & Mares Stakes.