The Qatar Arc Trials at ParisLongchamp delivered compelling storylines across the card, with Japanese raider Byzantine Dream emerging as a standout performer in a thrilling Prix Foy that has reshuffled the Arc betting markets.

Prix Foy - Group 2: Byzantine Dream Impresses for Japan

Byzantine Dream secured victory under Oisin Murphy in a fast time (more than a second quicker than standard and only fractionally slower than subsequent Arc winner Waldgeist's win in 2019). The four-year-old chestnut overcame pre-race concerns about his demeanor, having arrived at the start looking visibly agitated and sweating.

The Japanese contender travelled smoothly off the generous-looking pace set by Aidan O'Brien's Mont St Michel – who was followed by stablemate Los Angeles – and he showed a bright turn of foot to burst between market rivals Sosie and Almaqam in the final couple of furlongs.

Key Performances:
Winner: Byzantine Dream
Second: Sosie - bounced back from Eclipse disappointment
Third: Almaqam - stayed the 12-furlong trip but may target Champion Stakes instead

The victory has sparked market movements for fellow Japanese Arc contender Croix Du Nord, who has been cut to as short as 8/1 in places without even running, such is the confidence following Byzantine Dream's impressive display.

Qatar Prix Vermeille - Group 1: Aventure Dominates

Aventure settled nicely under a confident Maxime Guyon and ultimately repelled the late challenge of Prix de Diane winner Gezora with any amount to spare. The performance was particularly impressive as last year's Arc runner-up demonstrated the class that makes her a leading contender for this year's renewal.

The race served as a major disappointment for long-term Arc favorite Whirl, who failed to secure the free supplementary entry that victory would have provided. Whirl didn't seem to run her race for whatever reason, and now faces the prospect of a €120,000 supplementary fee if connections wish to add her to the Arc field.

Qatar Prix Niel - Group 2: Cualificar Punches Arc Ticket

Andre Fabre's Godolphin-owned colt Cualificar punched his own Arc ticket with a hard-fought win over the 110-rated Bay City Roller in the Qatar Prix Niel. The victory was notable for the manner in which Cualificar emerged from what appeared an impossible position with a furlong and a half to travel on his first attempt at the distance.

However, the race was considered the least informative of the day's Arc trials, with market leader Leffard, winner of the Grand Prix de Paris, managing only a well-held sixth after being held up at the back.

Arc Implications and Market Movements

The day's results have significantly impacted Arc betting markets:

Winners:
Byzantine Dream's connections - the Japanese horse's impressive time and manner of victory suggests he could be a major player
Aventure - confirmed her class with a dominant Group 1 display
Sosie - showed he's back to his best after Eclipse disappointment

Question Marks:
Whirl - expensive supplementary fee now required
Almaqam - may be diverted to Champion Stakes at Ascot
Leffard - disappointing in the Prix Niel after Grand Prix de Paris success

Looking Ahead to Arc Day

Considered even more effective when the ground is testing, last year's Arc second Aventure gives owner-breeders Alain and Gerard Wertheimer a really strong hand alongside Sosie. The stable will have a fascinating decision regarding jockey arrangements, with Maxime Guyon having ridden both horses to victory.

The Japanese challenge appears stronger than ever, with Byzantine Dream's victory providing significant confidence for the team behind Croix Du Nord, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising horses ever sent from Japan to contest the Arc.

The Arc itself may present different challenges if the traditional autumn rain arrives at Longchamp. Several connections will be hoping for softer ground, particularly those behind Sosie and Aventure, who are considered more effective in testing conditions.

The Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe takes place on October 5, 2025, with the trials having provided fascinating insights into the likely protagonists for Europe's premier middle-distance contest.