In a new partnership between the Aga Khan Studs and France Galop, it was announced on Thursday that the racing and breeding operation of His Highness the Aga Khan has committed to an across-the-card sponsorship of Prix Jacques le Marois day at Deauville from 2025.
For nearly 40 years the G1 Prix Jacques le Marois, which boasts prize-money of €1 million, was sponsored by the Niarchos family whose long association with the race included nine victories in their familiar silks. The legendary Miesque was the first when winning back-to-back editions in 1987 and 1988, while her descendant, Alpha Centauri (Ire), was successful in 2018 and features alongside the likes of Dubawi (Ire), Goldikova (Ire) and Kingman (GB) among notable winners of the race this century.
The Prix Jacques le Marois will take place on Sunday, August 17 in 2025, coinciding with the Arqana August Yearling Sale. The Aga Khan Studs will also sponsor the G3 Prix François Boutin, the Listed Prix Nureyev and the G3 Prix Lady O'Reilly (Prix Minerve)–a race in which the Aga Khan holds the record as an owner with 11 victories since 1966.
Nemone Routh, French racing manager of the Aga Khan Studs, said, “His Highness and Princess Zahra Aga Khan are committed to supporting the French racing industry, with four of our stallions based at Haras de Bonneval: Siyouni, one of Europe's leading sires, Zarak, who is enjoying a meteoric rise, and our two young recruits, Cartier Champion Three-Year-Old Vadeni and Group-winning miler Erevann.
“The G1 Prix Jacques le Marois is one of the finest eight-furlong races in Europe. Its exceptional track record speaks for itself and we are delighted to partner with France Galop to contribute to the promotion of this day, which occupies an essential place in the French racing calendar.”
Elie Hennau, managing director of France Galop, added, “For more than 100 years, the Prix Jacques le Marois has been the epitome of talent and speed, becoming one of the summer highlights of the Deauville racing season. France Galop is proud to continue the history of this significant race in our racing calendar with a new prestigious partner, the Aga Khan Studs.
“France Galop would like to take this opportunity to thank the Haras de Fresnay-le-Buffard and the Niarchos family for their unwavering commitment to the Prix Jacques le Marois. Thanks to this exceptional partnership, the reputation of this challenge over the mile has gone from strength to strength. With our new partner, the Aga Khan Studs, we share the ambition to continue to grow the international renown of this outstanding competition.”
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