Almanzor, trained by Jean-Claude Rouget, won the Prix du Jockey-Club at 20-1 to deny the Aga Khan a famous Derby double at Chantilly yesterday.
The Aga had celebrated English Derby glory with Harzand at Epsom 24 hours earlier but had to settle for second with Zarak (7-1) in the French version at Chantilly.
For Rouget, year in year out one of the most numerically successful trainers in France, this was a second success in the premier French classic after Le Havre in 2009.
Almanzor, ridden by veteran Jean-Bernard Eyquem, took command in the straight with Zarak, trained by Alain de Royer-Dupre, valiantly pressing him all the way to the line. Dicton took third.
“He won easily,” a tearful Rouget told French television LCI. “And it’s wonderful for Jean-Bernard, at 40 years old.”
“To win races like this is why we all get up every morning. This is the best moment of my career, I’ve finally won the Derby at 40!” added the winning rider.
Rouget appeared on paper to have better prospects with Mekhtaal, sent off as one of the favourites. “Compared to Mekhtaal, who was never in the race, I’d trained Almanzor especially for today and he was well drawn in stall seven.”
A strong overseas challenge, headed by the Frankie Dettori-ridden 4-1 favourite Foundation, failed to make an impact.