- Dettori could be onboard Free Wind
- Italian looking for seventh Arc win in his final season
- Ace Impact remains current favourite
In what could be a fitting conclusion to an illustrious career, jockey Frankie Dettori is strongly considering Free Wind as his mount for the upcoming Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Initially considered an outsider at 66-1 odds, Free Wind’s prospects have significantly improved, with bookmakers now offering her at 40-1, and even as short as 20-1 in some cases. This drastic shift is attributed to the news of Dettori’s potential partnership with the spirited mare.
Yorkshire Oaks performance an indication of Free Wind’s potential
Free Wind’s recent commendable performance, a close second in the prestigious Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks, has been further validated by the subsequent triumph of the winner, Warm Heart, in the Prix Vermeille at Longchamp. This impressive display has bolstered confidence in Free Wind’s chances.
Dettori, a six-time Arc winner, last secured victory astride Enable in 2017 and 2018. The possibility of Dettori teaming up with Free Wind adds an electrifying dimension to this year’s Arc.
Emily Upjohn, another contender from the same stable, currently stands as a 16-1 shot for the Arc. Her season kicked off on a high note with a triumph in the Coronation Cup at Epsom, and she narrowly missed out in the Eclipse before a less favourable run in the King George.
It is noteworthy that Free Wind will not have a rematch with Warm Heart in the Arc, as trainer Aidan O’Brien has opted to potentially field St Leger victor Continuous as the sole representative from Ballydoyle.
The final decision will be reached at the next declaration stage, and all eyes will be on Dettori and Free Wind as they endeavour to craft a memorable farewell performance in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
Betting Implications
Arrest’s odds at the St Leger Stakes tumbled when it became clear that Detorri would be onboard. Stablemate Gregory had been favourite, alongside Continuous, but when Dettori settled on Arrest, possibly because of the soft ground, things changed. On this occasion the Italian had to settle for second place behind Continuous, however, if punters feel he could get a result in Paris aboard Free Wind, they may get a good ante-post price in the next couple of days. An each-way bet might be worthwhile.
At the time of writing bet365 are offering the following odds:
7-2 Ace Impact, 11-2 Hukum, 9 Feed The Flame, 10 Westover, 14 Emily Upjohn, 16 Bay Bridge, 20 Luxembourg, Place Du Carrousel, Simca MIlle, Zagrey, 25 Free Wind
Prices are correct at the time of writing and are subject to change.
Check out the UK’s best Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe betting sites and all of the info you need ahead of the big race at Betting.com. Check out the best bookies for horse racing here.
