Should Rouget rethink Almanzor target and answer France's call?

Jean-Claude Rouget has long planned to send Almanzor to Ascot for the Qipco Champion StakesCredit: Patrick McCann

All of my owners want to win the Arc but, for me, winning the Champion Stakes at Ascot would be just as good.

Jean-Claude Rouget delivered those words with a chuckle during an interview with the Racing Post in August.

Now, with the trainer underlining his determination Almanzor will head to Ascot and not Chantilly for Sunday's Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, those words hang in the air, a defiant challenge.

Read the full story

Read award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing, with exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours and subscriber-only emails.

Subscribe to unlock

Racing Post digital newspaper (worth over £100 per month)
Award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing
Expert tips from the likes of Tom Segal and Paul Kealy
Replays and results analysis from all UK and Irish racecourses
Form study tools including the Pro Card and Horse Tracker
Extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree and sales data

Already a subscriber?Log in

Scott BurtonFrance correspondent

Published on 26 September 2016inReports

Last updated 20:03, 26 September 2016

Copy