The admirable Goliath captured third Group 1 on Sunday as he defeated Dubai Honour in the Preis Von Europa.
The Alderfug gelding made every yard under Christophe Soumillon as he bids to embark on another international campaign. Goliath has been a revelation for connections, landing his first Group 1 in 2024 when taking the King George.
He’s largely failed to match that form since despite some smart efforts in defeat, notably third in the Hong Kong Vase. Following a win on his seasonal debut and a third in the Hardwicke, he appeared to be returning to his best.
Following the performance, Francis-Henri Graffard told Wettstar, via Racing TV: “He’s a lovely horse and the pet of the stable. Everybody loves him. I think he is a very famous horse now worldwide because of the way he walks and his character.
“Today it was very nice to see him winning so easily. We knew there was nobody to go in front really so we decided to jump well. He’s a horse you don’t want to upset at the beginning of the race.
“When I saw him in front, nice and and relaxed with his ears pricked. I thought he was going to run a big race. He quickened nicely and won comfortably – it was a bit like when he won the King George two years ago”
All options are open for Goliath, says Graffard
Goliath was unlucky not to add another Ascot success to his career as Soumillon lost his irons in the Hardwicke. He failed to replicate his 2024 King George performance in that race last time out, but the return to prominent tactics evidently suited.
Graffard added: “It was nice to see him like this. It will be very good for his mind and his temperament, he can feel really strong again.”
Going forward, Graffard said: “He has all the options worldwide. But I need to discuss with the owners and decide where is best for him to go. He will travel either east or west. He did very well in Hong Kong last December, so that is probably an option too.”
Christophe Soumillon partnered his fifth win on the gelding and was full of praise, adding: “Nobody was going to make the running so I just let him go in front. He changed his leads perfectly in the turn and when I asked him to quicken he responded really strongly today.
“I don’t know what the next race is for him. But if he comes back sound, with him you never know – he can make you dream all the time.”