Information regarding the starting gate draw for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe weekend
QATAR PRIX DE L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE
QATAR ARABIAN WORLD CUP
BRAND NEW FORMAT FOR THE QATAR PRIX DE L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE AND QATAR ARABIAN WORLD CUP DRAW
As part of its strategy to promote the various highlights of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, France Galop will introduce a brand new format for the 2026 starting gate draw for the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and Qatar Arabian World Cup.
As with all Flat races, starting gates will be drawn electronically on the morning of Thursday, 1 October, under the supervision of a Commissioner of Justice.
However, the result of the draw will not be released immediately, but the starting gates will be unveiled that evening at the official launch ceremony of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend, in a format that will highlight this key moment.
The detailed terms of this procedure will be outlined in the specific conditions of these two races.
In this context, several operational adjustments will be implemented:
For the Qatar Arabian World Cup, the various entry deadlines will be brought forward by one day, with the final declarations made on Thursday, 1 October;
For both races, declarations of jockeys and equipment will be extended until Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 22:30.
Finally, may we remind you that entries for the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe close on Wednesday, 20 May 2026 at 10:30 (Times in Paris).