Few races in world horse racing carry the prestige of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, and on October 4 the sport’s attention will once again turn to ParisLongchamp.
The 2026 Arc forms the centrepiece of a spectacular weekend of racing on October 3 and 4, with leading horses from Britain, Ireland, France, Japan and elsewhere set to compete for one of the biggest prizes in the sport. For those interested in horse racing bets, the race also offers plenty to consider in the ante-post markets before the final field takes shape, with form, potential runners and ground conditions all likely to influence the betting.
A race with more than 100 years of history
The Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe was first run at Longchamp on October 3, 1920. It was created in the aftermath of the First World War as a prestigious international race designed to showcase thoroughbred racing in France.
Its name was chosen in reference to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, a monument closely associated with France’s military history.
More than a century later, the race has become one of the defining events of the international Flat season. Run over 2,400 metres, it brings together three-year-olds and older horses and provides a unique test of class, stamina and racecraft.
Daryz leads the current picture
The 2026 field will not be finalised until closer to race day, but there is already an obvious name to watch.
Daryz, winner of the 2025 Arc, is back in contention and strengthened his position at the head of the market with victory in the Qatar Prix Foy at ParisLongchamp in September.
His 2025 Arc victory came in a dramatic finish against Minnie Hauk, with Daryz prevailing by a head. Minnie Hauk and third-placed Sosie are also among the horses entered for the 2026 renewal, setting up the possibility of another meeting between some of last year’s leading protagonists.
International challenge
One of the Arc’s biggest attractions is its international nature.
France currently has the largest number of initial entries for the 2026 race, followed by Britain and Ireland, while Japan has seven horses entered. Among the Japanese contenders is Forever Young, who made history by winning the 2025 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
That international presence means the Arc is about much more than a battle between French and British racing. It has become a genuine meeting point for the world’s leading Flat-racing jurisdictions.
What should you watch?
As the race approaches, the major factors to consider will include the final field, recent form, ground conditions, previous performances over the distance and how each horse has performed at ParisLongchamp.
The Arc can reward horses with the class to travel comfortably before producing a powerful finish, but conditions on the day can have a major influence.
With Daryz defending his crown and challengers arriving from across Europe and Japan, the 2026 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe promises to be another fascinating chapter in the race’s long history.
ParisLongchamp will provide the stage on October 4. The question is which horse will emerge from one of racing’s biggest days as the new champion?