Persian King proves a class apart in G1 Prix d’Ispahan

Exceptional four-year-old Persian King registered a second G1 success with a dominant display in the Prix d’Ispahan over nine furlongs at Chantilly, France, on Sunday, 19 July.

Last year’s G1 Poule d’Essai des Poulains victor was stepping back up in distance following a comfortable win in the mile G2 Prix du Muguet at Saint-Cloud at the end of June.

After breaking on terms from his wide draw, Persian King soon settled in second on the outside of Pogo. The Andre Fabre-trained colt loomed up to take up the running with just over two furlongs to race and readily opened up a clear lead over his seven rivals.

Persian King extended his advantage inside the final furlong, staying on strongly under Pierre-Charles Boudot to beat Stormy Antarctic by an easy two lengths.

Andre Fabre said: “I am delighted with Persian King. Nine furlongs and a mile seem to suit him very well but we may look at stepping him up further in time.”

Pierre-Charles Boudot added: “Persian King is just a great horse. He was a bit nervous because the weather is quite hot today but did it easily. He was slightly keen beforehand but he is a big horse with a big action and good stamina.”