Alpine Star and Circus Maximus could add extra spice to intriguing Marois clash

Two further top-class challengers are under consideration for what is shaping up to be another exceptional mile contest in next Sunday's Prix Jacques le Marois.

Sponsored by the Niarchos Family's Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard, the Jacques le Marois had already looked a race to savour with Palace Pier, Persian King and last year's hero Romanised all being targeted at Deauville.

Alan Cooper, racing manager for the sponsors, confirmed Coronation Stakes winner Alpine Star and Circus Maximus – who is owned in partnership with Coolmore – are on course for the race, subject to the weather.

"All being well both Alpine Star and Circus Maximus could run," said Cooper. "We'll just keep an eye on the ground, we don't want it fast. We'll see how the weather and track goes."

While the Normandy weather is notoriously fickle, the forecast is for the sunshine to be replaced with rain clouds towards the end of the week.

Alpine Star would be seeking to emulate her half-sister Alpha Centauri, who won the race in 2018.

She has shown herself versatile in terms of trip, having won the Coronation Stakes over a mile in brilliant fashion before going down by a short-neck to Fancy Blue in the 1m2½f Prix de Diane.

Circus Maximus (white cap) had both Siskin and Kameko behind when finishing second in the Sussex StakesCredit: Edward Whitaker

Cooper said there was no question of either horse ducking the other. "They are two independent horses and separate decisions will be made with Jessica Harrington and Aidan O'Brien," he said.

Circus Maximus already has three Group 1 victories to his credit, including last year's Prix du Moulin at Longchamp. The ultra-tough campaigner beat all bar Mohaather in a pulsating Sussex Stakes last week.

Should both Niarchos runners face the starter, as well as St James's Palace Stakes winner Palace Pier, the race would bring together all three Group 1 winners over a mile from Royal Ascot.

Kameko, winner of the 2,000 Guineas and fourth in the Sussex Stakes after being denied a clear run in the final furlong, was on Saturday also revealed to be on target for the Deauville highlight.

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