Andre Fabré has opposed France Galop’s proposal to allow geldings into the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe from 2027, after the French governing body’s board backed the change in Paris this week.
The record eight-time Arc-winning trainer told the Press Association he was “firmly against” the plan, which still needs European Pattern Committee approval before it can be written into the race conditions.
Fabre’s intervention gives the debate immediate weight.
France Galop has pitched the move as a way to strengthen the Arc as a global middle-distance championship, opening the ParisLongchamp showpiece to the best older horses regardless of breeding status.
Fabré warning sharpens Arc debate
Fabré’s argument is built around the race’s historic purpose. The Arc has long been a defining test for elite colts and fillies with future breeding value, and he said racing needs “more stallions not less” as he questioned the benefit of changing a contest that already draws deep fields.
The timing matters because the 2026 Arc is not affected, but the 2027 race could be transformed if the proposal is ratified.
It would bring the Arc closer to contests such as the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, where geldings can already compete.
France Galop said the change was overwhelmingly approved by its board, but Fabré’s stance ensures the sport’s traditionalists now have a high-profile voice in the argument. The full comments were reported by Irishracing.com’s Arc proposal report.
