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Rouget delighted with Almanzor build-up as Weld looks to the skies

Dermot Weld after Fascinating Rock had won the 2015 Qipco Champion Stakes at Ascot
Dermot Weld after Fascinating Rock had won the 2015 Qipco Champion Stakes at AscotCredit: Edward Whitaker

Almanzor's "fantastic" turn of foot and Ascot's resemblance to a French course are among the factors trainer Jean-Claude Rouget believes will enable the Irish Champion Stakes winner to repeat the trick this Saturday.

Rouget is "extremely happy" with Almanzor heading into the £1.3 million Qipco Champion Stakes, and also believes the anticipated good ground will suit Europe’s highest-rated horse to a tee.

While respectful of a strong cast-list that could feature Arc heroine Found, Jack Hobbs and last year's winner Fascinating Rock, France’s champion trainer-elect reckons a repeat of last month's performance at Leopardstown, which swept Christophe Soumillon from last to first – and past Found – will make Almanzor tough to beat.

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France correspondent

Published on inBritish Champions Day

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