What Are the Key Races to Watch at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Weekend?

Few events capture the imagination of flat racing fans quite like the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Held annually at ParisLongchamp, the Arc weekend is a showcase of elite international talent, heritage and excitement. But while the headline race gets most of the spotlight, the entire weekend is packed with world-class contests that make it one of the most significant fixtures in global horse racing.

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Why Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Weekend Stands Out

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The Arc is more than a single Group 1 event. It's a festival of speed and stamina, where Europe’s finest horses, trainers and jockeys meet the best from around the world. Spread over two days in early October, the meeting features multiple Group-level races, record prize purses and a distinctly Parisian atmosphere. Elegant hospitality, luxury experiences and the prestige of witnessing racing history in the making all add to the appeal.

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The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe – The Main Event

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The headline event is the 2400m Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, traditionally held on Sunday. It draws a stellar field of middle-distance runners, many of whom have already proven themselves in races like the King George VI, Irish Champion Stakes or Juddmonte International. Past winners include household names such as Enable, Treve and Sea The Stars. It’s a race where tactics, positioning and track conditions can swing the outcome dramatically and where legends are often crowned.

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Prix de l’Opéra – Classy Fillies and Mares

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Also run on Sunday, the Prix de l’Opéra is a Group 1 for fillies and mares over 2000m. Often featuring participants from the Nassau Stakes or Prix Jean Romanet, it adds a tactical and competitive edge to the day’s card. The Opéra frequently highlights the strength of French-trained talent, though Irish and British raiders are never far behind.

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Prix de l’Abbaye – Pure Speed on Show

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If sprinting is more your style, the Prix de l’Abbaye over 1000m is the weekend’s speed test. Run down the straight at ParisLongchamp, it’s a true test of pace and positioning. With fast ground and a big field, it’s often one of the most unpredictable and thrilling races to watch. It attracts the fastest horses from across Europe and often delivers dramatic finishes.

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Prix Marcel Boussac and Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère – Future Stars in Focus

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These two Group 1 races for juveniles open Sunday’s card and often offer an early look at future stars. The Prix Jean-Luc Lagardère is for colts and fillies over 1400m, while the Marcel Boussac is exclusively for fillies over the same trip. Winners here often go on to contest major races in the following Classic season, making them key form indicators.

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Saturday Highlights – Underrated and Unmissable

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While Sunday draws the attention, Saturday at the Arc weekend shouldn’t be overlooked. Races like the Prix Daniel Wildenstein (Group 2) provide strong betting interest and the Arabian World Cup brings additional global flavour to the weekend. It’s also a great chance to explore the venue and enjoy the relaxed build-up to Arc Sunday.

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The ParisLongchamp Experience

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Attending the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend is about more than just the racing. From Champagne receptions and haute cuisine to panoramic grandstand views, the experience at ParisLongchamp blends tradition with luxury. It's the perfect setting for a weekend of high-end sport and social occasion.

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Hospitality and VIP Packages with Core Events

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Core Events offers a curated selection of hospitality experiences for Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe weekend. These include premium seating, exclusive lounges, gourmet dining and full concierge support. Whether you're entertaining clients, rewarding staff or treating yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime sporting occasion, we ensure every element is taken care of.

Packages can include:

• Premium race-day seating
• Champagne and gourmet lunch experiences
• Access to exclusive hospitality areas
• Hotel accommodation and local transport arrangements
• Personal concierge assistance throughout the event

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Ready to Experience Racing at Its Finest?

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If you’re planning to attend the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, now is the time to secure your place. With high demand and limited availability for the best packages, early booking is essential. Speak to our team at Core Events to tailor a weekend that fits your preferences and delivers a truly exceptional experience. Let us help you make Arc weekend unforgettable.

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