The staying division looks wide-open in France this year and it’s therefore not a huge surprise to see Sibayan at the head of the market for the 2800m Group Two at 6.10pm UK time this evening, following his close 2nd to Arrow Eagle at Chantilly last month.
That said, although he looks to have unlocked improvement this year, both as a gelding and switched to the all-conquering barn of Francis-Henri Graffard, the general 9/4 favourite this evening isn’t a confirmed stayer and hasn’t fully justified his 49.5 rating – which presumably was calculated on a strict line through the regressing Junko.
Double Major won this last year and is 3-9 at Longchamp. His best performances tend to come in October when the mud is flying. He is respected at 9/4 but is well-found in the market.
Along with Sibayan, a newcomer to the staying scene is Internaute who was sent off at 6/5 locally for the Prix de Barbeville in April. He’s been minded for his four-year-old season and this regally bred son of two Arc winners, Sea The Stars and Solemia, has almost nothing to find on official figures. He can also step forward again, given his pedigree, proven stamina and yard switch to Christopher Head.
Head’s yard was underperforming back in May with a 15% strike rate, but the cloud has certainly lifted and Internaute rates as a great bet at 4-1.
6.10pm ParisLongchamp – 1pt win Internaute @ 4-1 (all firms, 11/2 bet365 or 9/2 William Hill)
