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| Staff Writer |
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Facteur Cheval, the French sensation, is facing a pivotal decision as his connections weigh up a potential clash with City Of Troy in the Gr.1 Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar.
The Jerome Reynier-trained gelding has been a model of consistency at the highest level, boasting a Group One victory in the Dubai Turf at Meydan earlier this year, alongside five placings in elite company. His most recent outing saw him claim a creditable third in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, mirroring his performance from the previous summer.
The Sussex Stakes, a race steeped in history, has seen its fair share of luminaries grace the winner's enclosure. Recent victors include the likes of Mohaather, Alcohol Free, and Baaeed, all of whom went on to further Group One glory. Facteur Cheval's consistent performances in this race underscore his class and durability at the top level.
Last season, the French star narrowly missed out on Qipco British Champions Day glory, finishing second to compatriot Big Rock in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. A return to Ascot on October 19 remains firmly on the radar, with both the Gr.1 Queen Elizabeth II Stakes and the Gr.1 Champion Stakes under consideration.
However, in an intriguing twist, connections are also entertaining the prospect of a first foray onto dirt at the Breeders' Cup in California. This bold move would see Facteur Cheval potentially locking horns with some of the world's finest dirt performers, including the highly-touted City Of Troy.
Trainer Jerome Reynier is keeping his options open, telling the Racing Post: "It's possible we could go back to Ascot on October 19, we'll see how the horse does between now and then, and the Breeders' Cup Classic is also an option."
The French handler is acutely aware of the variables at play, adding: "We don't want to make any definite plans as it depends on the ground and the opposition. If the ground is soft enough then maybe he could go to Ascot for either the QEII or the Champion Stakes as we know he can copy with heavy ground very well."
Reynier's comments about Facteur Cheval's adaptability are particularly noteworthy. "He also trained very well at Meydan on the dirt and doesn't mind the kickback, so the Breeders' Cup could be a nice challenge, but we will make a decision closer to the time," he revealed.
This versatility opens up exciting possibilities for the globetrotting gelding. A tilt at the Breeders' Cup Classic would see him compete for a share of the US$6 million purse, a significant step up from the US$1.8 million on offer for the Champion Stakes at Ascot.
As autumn approaches, all eyes will be on Facteur Cheval and his team as they navigate this crucial decision. Whether he opts for the familiar turf of Ascot or embarks on a bold American adventure, one thing is certain: this French star continues to capture the imagination of racing enthusiasts worldwide.