As a taster of things to come, just one week out from the first French classics, ParisLongchamp will stage a meeting this Sunday featuring a trio of black-type races.

Won by the exceptional Waldgeist in 2018, the 2400m, Gr.3 Prix d’Hédouville tops the billing and will feature a number of quality older horses, notably Prix Exbury winner Haya Zark who is out to set the record straight, over a distance he has never tackled, after failing to fire in the Prix d’Harcourt.

Winner of the last edition, Mutabahi who is the richest horse in the race also needs to reassure connections following a lacklustre run in Doha earlier in the year. André Fabre will be represented by Listed winner, Galashiels, and Kertez who has placed on numerous occasions at Gr.2 and 3 level. Know Thyself and Or Gris complete the six runners field. Both would need to improve on their overall form to play a prominent role.

The 2200m, Listed Prix de la Seine has attracted a number of good three year-old fillies. The majestically-bred Precious Sea has not been seen out since finishing 2nd in a Bordeaux Listed seven months ago but will be very much in focus, as will Louve Story who won smartly on her re-entry last month, and recent maiden winner, A Minardière. Izlik, Engaliwe, Khahira and Adeliade step up in category with some ambition.

For 4+ fillies and mares, the 2800m Listed Prix Gold River sees the return of Sea The Sky who is expected to improve on her rather lacklustre comeback, and Jean-Claude Rouget’s La Mehana who is back at a more suitable distance. Lastotchka, Flying Beauty and Melo Melo, who has been supplemented, will also generate some interest.