Japan's Arc hope Shin Emperor was 'only 70-80 per cent ready' before barnstorming effort in Irish Champion says trainer

Trainer Yoshito Yahagi believes Shin Emperor can produce an even bigger performance in the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe than at Leopardstown and revealed that sweltering summertime temperatures in Japan had compromised his preparation before departing for Europe.

Across a feast of European racing at the weekend, Shin Emperor was a major mover for the Arc on October 6 following his fast-finishing third behind Economics and Auguste Rodin in the Irish Champion Stakes. But Yahagi said Shin Emperor had been only "70-80 per cent" ready for his Irish assignment.

A brother to 2020 Arc winner Sottsass, the French-bred son of Siyouni was cut to a best-priced 8-1 for the Longchamp showpiece after Saturday's European debut. He is vying with Los Angeles, who was an eyecatching fourth in the Irish Champion, to be third favourite for the Arc behind Sosie and Look De Vega in a market dominated by three-year-old colts.