Graffard runner Daryz bookies elect for Prix Ganay
A compact but high-quality group has been entered for the 2026 Prix Ganay at the first forfeit stage, with leading French stables dominating early nominations and Andre Fabre again at the centre of the race.
Just seven horses remain in contention for the Group 1 feature at Paris Longchamp, including three from master trainer Fabre, who has a record eight wins in the race, most recently with Sosie in 2025. His entries include First Look, which has now been given a clear assignment for the contest as connections firm up early-season plans.
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“He worked on Tuesday morning and Andre was very happy with him. He’s obviously had two runs and carried the penalty both runs,” said Wathnan’s racing adviser Richard Brown of First Look.
“This looks like it will be a very deep Ganay but he’s got two runs under his belt, is fit and well and we’ll take our chance.”
In Prix Ganay betting, last year’s Arc hero Daryz has been installed a clear favourite at 1.80 with Betway.com (betway review), reflecting strong confidence around the Graffard-trained runner.
Aventure and Cualificar sit on the second line of betting at 5.50, while Fabre’s Bright Picture is priced at 8.00. First Look is a longer 15.00 chance despite positive reports from the yard, with Arrow Eagle (17.00) and Azimpour (34.00) rounding out the market.
Jean-Claude Rouget is represented by Arrow Eagle, while Francis-Henri Graffard — whose stable continues to rise in prominence — has entered both Azimpour and Daryz, the latter already earmarked for a European campaign following top-level success last season. Irish interest is also present through Aventure.
The Prix Ganay, traditionally the first Group 1 of the European flat season, often serves as a launching pad for elite middle-distance performers.
While the entry list appears small, it aligns with recent trends, with eight runners going to post in 2025 and nine in 2024, underlining the typically tight but high-quality nature of the field.
