Daryz returns in convincing G1 Prix Ganay route
Daryz made a winning return to racing with a commanding performance in the Group 1 Prix Ganay at ParisLongchamp Racecourse, confirming his status as one of Europe’s leading middle-distance horses.
The four-year-old, trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, was sent off a short-priced favourite with betting sites following his victory in last year’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and justified that support with a polished display over 10 furlongs.
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Travelling strongly throughout under Mickael Barzalona, Daryz settled comfortably before quickening decisively in the straight to put the race beyond doubt.
Graffard said Daryz’s performance had exceeded his expectations despite his preparation being faultless in the lead-up.
“That was a super first run of the year,” he said.
“He’d been working very well at home and looked in magnificent condition today. He was very relaxed even though they didn’t go fast and he really picked up strongly, so much so that it was all over well before the line.
“On what he’s done there he showed he’s still a real force and in terms of distance he looks very versatile.”
Bright Picture finished best of the remainder in second, with Group 1-winning mare Aventure in third, but neither was able to challenge once the favourite accelerated.
The win marked a significant step in Daryz’s 2026 campaign, with connections now targeting a series of major international races, including Royal Ascot. The son of Sea The Stars had ended last season with a standout Arc triumph after mixed mid-season results, and his return performance suggested further improvement this year.
