He might not have run over fences since a fifth in Graded company at Compiegne in November 2020, but Polirico has been better than ever over hurdles since then and returns to the larger obstacles with a very big chance.

He beat the top-class Goliath Du Berlais as a three year old over fences here, but has since become much better known as a hurdler.  He won the Grade 3 Prix Juigne on his reappearance last year and going on to land the Prix La Barka last summer.

His chase form in 2020 is some way above this level, beating former Grade 1 winner On The Go around Compiegne before a second to Roi Mage in the Grade 2 Prix de la Gascogne.

He has fallen twice over fences here, so there are risks attached, but with a clear round he should prove very difficult to beat.

RECOMMENDED BET: 1.25pm Auteuil – Polirico win @ 2-1 (most firms)