Aclaim 'firing on all cylinders' as Meade hunts Group 1 success

5.15 Chantilly
Qatar Prix de la Foret | Group 1 | 7f | 3yo+ | ATR/RUK

Had things panned out differently, Martyn Meade might have been bidding for Europe's richest prize this weekend, but the Newmarket trainer will still be involved at Chantilly with Aclaim, whom he gives a fighting chance in one of the Group 1 support races to the Arc.

A little over a month ago, Meade said the Arc was on the cards for stable star Eminent, but he has been roughed off for the season, so the yard's hopes rest with Aclaim, a smooth winner of the Park Stakes last time.

Connections of Prix Maurice de Gheest winner Brando will also be looking forward to returning to France, aiming to add to recent British wins in this race for Limato, Olympic Glory and Dream Ahead.

Home challenger Karar, who runs in the Al Shaqab silks and was second to the absent Limato 12 months ago, should also be in the mix having won a course-and-distance Group 3 on his last outing.

What they say

Jean-Claude Rouget, trainer of Zelzal
I hope we don't get too much rain for him as he is better on quick ground. I don't think the drop back in trip will be a problem for him.

Martyn Meade, trainer of Aclaim
He's been firing on all cylinders since his win at Doncaster and couldn't be in better condition going into the race. We always saw the race at Doncaster as the perfect preparation for this so we are very pleased how it has all panned out. All the conditions are going to suit him on Sunday. Although he's been effective at six furlongs and a mile, I think seven furlongs is his optimum trip. We're also loving the fact that the ground is going to be soft.

Richard Fahey, trainer of Toscanini
He ran a cracking race over this distance at York last time out. It will be nice to give him his own day in the sun and he goes to Chantilly with a small chance.

Roger Varian, trainer of Realtra
She's been a star this year, winning at Lingfield on Good Friday before picking up a pair of Group 3 contests in Ireland. The return to Group 1 company demands more from her, but this is her trip and she should acquit herself with credit once again.

Freddy Head, trainer of Dame Du Roi
She's in good form and has taken her race on trials day well. She's a fresh filly and I think the the softer the ground the more it will help her.

Read exclusive previews from 6pm daily on racingpost.com