A Sunday dedicated to excellence

This Sunday, August 17, 2025, the Deauville racecourse will resonate with the rhythm of the elite. Bathed in summer light, the grandstands will host one of the most prestigious flat racing meetings of the year, held under the patronage of the renowned Aga Khan Studs.

The highlight of the day is scheduled for 3:50 p.m.: the Aga Khan Studs – Prix Jacques Le Marois. A Group I event—the pinnacle of the racing calendar—this race brings together the world’s top milers, hailing from France, England, Ireland, and Japan, for a 1,600-meter straight-line duel. A contest of pure speed, where every stride counts and the financial stakes reflect the race's prestige: one million euros, with more than €570,000 for the winner. Among the eleven starters, Zabiari, the 4-year-old carrying the sponsor’s colors, enters with high confidence under jockey Mickaël Barzalona. Rosallion, also four, impresses with his consistency and substantial earnings. Notable Speech, bred by the legendary Godolphin operation, boasts a record and authority worthy of attention. And the formidable Japanese mare Ascoli Piceno, with career earnings nearing €3.75 million, may well deliver a resounding win for Christophe Lemaire.

The day will begin at 1:58 p.m. with the The Aga Khan Studs Prix Lady O’Reilly – Prix Minerve. A heartfelt tribute to a major figure of European breeding, taken too soon. Over 2,500 meters, 3-year-old fillies will face a test of endurance and composure. Zia Agnese, ridden by Christophe Soumillon, bears the weight of previous Group winners. Kiamba, with Mickaël Barzalona aboard, arrives on a strong upward trajectory following a recent victory. And Understudy, trained by John and Thady Gosden in Newmarket, will defend British hopes under jockey Oisin Murphy.

At 2:33 p.m., the focus shifts to the The Aga Khan Studs – Prix Nureyev, a Listed race over 2,000 meters that promises a tactical battle. Sea Scout, partnered with William Buick, and Instant Fragile, ridden by Christophe Soumillon, share a common challenge: both will carry extra weight due to their recent wins at this level. Nitoi, representing Wertheimer & Frère and trained by André Fabre, may well upset the favorites, as could Purview, racing in the Juddmonte silks, a consistent and focused contender.

Finally, at 4:25 p.m., the meeting will conclude with the The Aga Khan Studs – Prix François Boutin, a Group III race reserved for 2-year-old colts and fillies who have yet to win a Group II event. Held over 1,400 meters in a straight line, it offers a glimpse into the future. Rayif, a young prospect from the Aga Khan Studs, aims for a second victory. Daytona, trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Ryan Moore, already has two wins to his name. And Kenzel, representing Wertheimer & Frère and unbeaten in two starts, could well confirm his full potential.