France Galop Extends UK/Ire Fan Invitation

UK and Irish racing fans are being strongly urged by officials at France Galop, the major French racing authority, to make the trip across the English Channel to Paris for the Gr1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. The Arc race meeting at Longchamp this year carries huge significance, marking the one hundredth running of what many thoroughbred aficionados consider the holy grail of global weight-for-age racing. Historically, up to 50 percent of attendees come from England Ireland whose runners are once again expected to play a pivotal role. According to racingtv.com, this year’s Arc will be held in hugely contrasting conditions compared to last year’s face, held in front of a small crowd. Although there will be unlimited spectator capacity, it will nonetheless be a requirement that masks are worn both indoors and outdoors in any instance that social distancing is not possible. A ‘health pass’ will also be mandatory. France Galop general manager Olivier Delloye explained, “All that people need to go to the races is to show this ‘health pass’ – either showing you are fully vaccinated, or you can show a negative PCR or antigen test – and we will be offering the service of antigen tests at the gates of ParisLongchamp.” Marking the once in a century razzamatazz surrounding the event, silk colours of the previous 99 Arc winners will be displayed at the track, and guests of honour will include previous winning riders. Below is 2020's teaser advert ahead of an historic attempt by Enable (Nathaniel) to create history with an unprecedented third Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, where she was ultimately denied.