A High-Stakes Dress Rehearsal at Auteuil

One month before the much-anticipated weekend — featuring the Défi des Haras - Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris (Group 1) — this Sunday, April 20 at Auteuil, is shaping up to be a spectacular dress rehearsal. Four Group races are on the card, and not just any: the Prix Amadou, Prix Léon Rambaud, and Prix Jean Stern (Group 2), along with the ever-popular Prix du Président de la République (Group 3). In short, it’s a day not to miss!

Hurdles: Time for the Young Guns to Shine

With top 4-year-old hurdler Sain d’Esprit (Cokoriko) absent, the Prix Amadou (Group 2) — a key stepping stone to the Prix Alain du Breil (Group 1) — is wide open. A golden opportunity for others to make their mark. Moody Risk (No Risk at All), who impressed with a confident win in the Prix de Pépinvast (Gr3), will need to prove herself over a longer trip and tougher competition. Kivala du Berlais (Saint des Saints), winner of last autumn’s Prix Georges de Talhouët-Roy (Group 2), returns to the track and will be looking to reestablish himself at the top level.

Steeplechase Stars in the Making

Seven runners will line up in the Prix Jean Stern (Group 2), the final prep for the Prix Ferdinand Dufaure (Group 1). Among them, Altura (Goliath du Berlais) — representing Haras d’Étreham — caught the eye with a front-running win on her steeplechase debut. With just one start over the bigger fences, she’s still green but clearly talented. She’ll face more seasoned rivals like Hacker du Berlais (Doctor Dino), last season’s 3-year-old standout, and Apollon du Luy (Kapgarde), a consistent performer still chasing his first Group win.

A Tense Face-Off and Watchful Outsiders

The Prix Léon Rambaud (Group 2), a key lead-up to the Grande Course de Haies d’Auteuil (Group 1), promises a thrilling showdown between Square Saint Roch (Polarix) and Losange Bleu (Martaline). The latter, out for revenge, will have to concede 6kg to his younger rival. After an encouraging seasonal return, Losange Bleu may well turn the tables on an in-form Square Saint Roch.

A Wide-Open Race for the 2025 President

The Prix du Président de la République (Group 3) — the richest Quinté+ of the year — headlines the day with fifteen runners over Auteuil’s steeplechase course. Expect fireworks in this ultra-competitive event. Trainer Daniela Mele sends out two strong contenders: Inaya Jones (Muhtathir) and Brexit (No Risk at All), both in top form and well treated at the weights. But all eyes will be on Scatar (Prince Gibraltar), the class act of the field, who must overcome a hefty impost. It won’t be easy against better-weighted rivals.

The First Steps of Tomorrow’s Stars

The action kicks off with the Prix Wild Monarch for Colts and Fillies — debut races for 3-year-olds with promising pedigrees. These events often mark the beginning of great careers and the first glimpse of future champions.