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Breeders’ Cup or Champion Stakes beckon for Onesto

3 minute read

The Fabrice Chappet-trained Onesto will either be heading to the QIPCO British Champion Stakes or the Breeders’ Cup Turf depending on ground conditions.

Onesto and Stephane Pasquier.
Onesto and Stephane Pasquier. Picture: Pat Healy Photography

The son of Frankel showed some high-class form at three, including victory in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris and an excellent second-place finish behind Luxembourg in the Group 1 Irish Champion Stakes. There was no disgrace in subsequent midfield finishes in the 2022 Arc and Japan Cup and although he didn't make his reappearance until August this season, the Gerard Augustin-Normand-owned colt proved he still had what it takes to perform at the top level when a brilliant third behind Ace Impact and Westover in this year's Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

Connections will be keeping an eye on the long-range weather forecast around Ascot, with a potential tilt at the QIPCO British Champion Stakes seemingly slightly in favour than a trip to Santa Anita for the Breeders' Cup. 

Fabrice Chappet said: "It depends on the ground. We are keeping an eye on the British Champion in case the ground will be suitable, good or good to soft. He would not go if it's softer than that, otherwise, he will go to the Breeders' Cup.

"For us, it was not a big a surprise [how well he ran in the Arc]. He has been running good for most of his life and last time in Ireland things just didn't go his way, otherwise he has run very good races."

Looking ahead to 2024, a career at stud beckons for Onesto, with Chappet adding: "At this moment we are going for one of the two [Ascot or Breeders' Cup] and next year he is going to stud."


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