 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
Al Hakeem, a leading hope for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, has been retired to stud in France by Al Shaqab Racing, bringing an end to a career marked by both triumph and adversity.
The son of Siyouni, trained by Jean-Claude Rouget, made his mark in the 2022 running of the ParisLongchamp showpiece, finishing a creditable fourth behind Alpinista, beaten less than three lengths. This performance came on the heels of an identical placing in that year's French Derby and a Group Two triumph over Junko in the Prix Guillaume d'Ornano at Deauville.
Al Hakeem's career, which saw him amass over US$750,000 in prize-money, was not without its challenges. The colt suffered a major setback when struck by another horse, resulting in over a year on the sidelines. However, demonstrating remarkable resilience, he returned to secure a Group Three success at Deauville last month, his fifth win in 10 outings.
The Gr.1 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Europe's most prestigious flat race, has a rich history of producing stallions. Previous winners who have gone on to successful stud careers include Sea The Stars, sire of 2021 Arc heroine Alpinista, and Montjeu, who sired four winners of the race including the great Hurricane Run.
Rouget, reflecting on his charge's career, said: "Al Hakeem is a horse of great heart and courage. His ability to recover from such a serious injury and return to Group-winning form speaks volumes about his character. He has all the attributes of a future champion sire."
The 5YO is set for a poignant return to Haras de Bouquetot for the 2025 breeding season, the very place where he was raised. Stud manager Benoit Jeffroy commented: "We are proud to welcome home Al Hakeem, an Al Shaqab Racing homebred who was raised at Haras de Bouquetot. He carries an exceptional pedigree and we are pleased to announce that breeding rights will be offered for sale."
Al Hakeem's retirement marks the end of a racing career that, while cut short by injury, showcased the colt's class and fighting spirit. His transition to stud duties at Haras de Bouquetot represents a new chapter, with the racing world eager to see if his progeny can emulate or even surpass his own achievements on the track.
As the breeding industry welcomes this new prospect, all eyes will be on Al Hakeem's first crop of foals, due to hit the ground in 2026. With his combination of pedigree, performance, and perseverance, Al Hakeem enters his stud career with high expectations, carrying the hopes of Al Shaqab Racing and the legacy of his sire Siyouni into the breeding sheds.