French Gold Cup Favourite Il Est Francais Withdrawn Due to Cautionary Approach After Subpar Performance

Il Est Francais recently showcased his potential as a young chaser by dominating the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton on Boxing Day. However, his plans to compete in France’s version of the Gold Cup suffered a setback as he finished last in his prep race at Auteuil last month.

Consequently, the team announced that the horse would be taking a break from racing and spending the summer at the farm of his breeder and co-owner, Nicolas de Lageneste. In a statement released on their X account, George and Zetterholm, along with the owners, Richard Kelvin-Hughes and Nicolas de Lageneste, explained that Il Est Francais would be resting at Haras de Saint-Voir, his co-owner’s stud, for a few months.

This decision means that he will not be participating in the French Gold Cup at the end of the month. The team expressed their preference for being cautious and allowing the horse the time he needs to regain his best form following his recent underperformance and a subpar workout.

Looking ahead, Il Est Francais is currently listed as an 8-1 chance for the next season’s King George VI Chase at Kempton.