Racing Post Ratings: Baaeed has potential to rate higher than Palace Pier

Baaeed confirmed that he is indeed a Group 1 performer when winning the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp on Sunday.

Although the unbeaten colt was little more than workmanlike in victory it wasn't a race conducive to a flashy performance, the main bunch going just a modest pace behind clear leader Novemba which resulted in a fast finish. That said, Baaeed was well on top at the line, readily settling matters and by no means subjected to maximum pressure by rider Jim Crowley.

It didn't look a particularly strong Group 1 beforehand, especially after Poetic Flare was rerouted to Saturday's Irish Champion Stakes and with Snow Lantern running below form (she looks ready for a mile and a quarter now). Baaeed was left with just Order Of Australia (new RPR 120, up 1lb) and Victor Ludorum (RPR 120, up 6lb) to beat, a pair of solid if unspectacular performers at the top level. In doing so Baaeed recorded an RPR of 123, not needing to match the 124 he posted in the Thoroughbred Stakes at Goodwood, a Group 1-calibre performance in its own right.