Maltese Cross primed for ParisLongchamp assignment
William Haggas has confirmed that Maltese Cross will be aimed at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp on October 4, following the colt’s authoritative success in the Great Voltigeur at York.
Route to the Arc
The Somerville Lodge handler decided against a St Leger tilt after the Knavesmire display, instead setting his sights on Europe’s premier middle-distance prize. That choice follows a campaign in which Maltese Cross has developed consistency over the summer: a Group One success earlier at ParisLongchamp is on his CV, he claimed the Great Voltigeur at York — defeating a field that included Pierre Bonnard and Derby winner Christmas Day — and his sole reverse came when finishing second on the soft at Epsom in the Derby.
Haggas has spoken of steady improvement from the Sea The Stars colt throughout the season and indicated he believes the horse is still progressing with each outing. The trainer also noted his enthusiasm for returning to ParisLongchamp, a course that has yielded top-level success for his yard in recent years.
Owner, purchase and training
Maltese Cross is owned by film producer George Waud. He was purchased as a yearling by Sam Haggas for 350,000 guineas and has been prepared at Somerville Lodge by William Haggas for this autumn’s big targets.
The colt’s campaign to date includes pattern-level wins and strong performances over middle distances, establishing him among the leading British contenders for the Arc. Connections have underlined their hopes for fair ground at Paris, reflecting the colt’s best form on quicker surfaces.
Arc picture and likely opposition
With the Arc date approaching, Maltese Cross features prominently in the market as one of the main British entries. He occupies second-favourite status in current lists behind the defending champion Daryz. The race will bring together the season’s leading performers from across Europe, presenting a stern examination of his form against established Group One rivals.
Haggas is no stranger to near-misses at the Arc and will be hoping to add the race to his yard’s recent Paris successes. The Grande Épreuve presents a particular challenge because of the depth of quality and the 2,400-metre trip, but Maltese Cross’s campaign has been structured with that test in mind.
What to expect next
- Connections are targeting ParisLongchamp on October 4, giving the colt a few weeks to sharpen up following York.
- Ground and a suitable prep run between now and the Arc will be factors in the final planning, with quicker going preferred based on his best performances.
- Confirmation of the final team for the Arc will follow the usual declarations and confirmation stages during September.
As the autumn’s big international fixtures draw nearer, Maltese Cross represents one of Britain’s most interesting middle-distance prospects for Paris. His seasonal progression, physical development and pattern race victories have combined to put him in contention for a slot among the leading contenders at the Arc de Triomphe.
