What's Happening?
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) has announced a partnership with FOX Sports to broadcast live coverage of the 2025 Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. The event will take place at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, and will be aired on FS1 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Eastern. The race, featuring a €5 million prize, is a Group 1 event for horses aged three years and older, covering a distance of 1 1/2 miles on turf. This year's race will see the horse Aventure, trained by Christophe Ferland, attempt to improve on last year's second-place finish. The Arc is part of the Breeders' Cup 'Win and You're In' Challenge Series, with the winner earning a spot in the G1 Breeders' Cup Turf on November 1 at Del Mar.
Why It's Important?
The live broadcast of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on FOX Sports represents a significant collaboration between NYRA and a major sports network, enhancing the visibility of horse racing to a broader audience. This partnership not only highlights the prestige of the Arc but also integrates it into the Breeders' Cup Challenge Series, which is crucial for the sport's global appeal. The event's coverage on a prominent platform like FS1 could attract new fans and bettors, potentially increasing viewership and engagement in horse racing. Additionally, the inclusion of the Arc in the 'Win and You're In' series underscores its importance in the international racing calendar, offering a direct path to the Breeders' Cup, one of the sport's most prestigious events.
What's Next?
Following the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, attention will shift to the Breeders' Cup World Championships, with the Arc winner securing a place in the G1 Breeders' Cup Turf. NYRA will also host a special Double wager on October 4, featuring the G1 Champagne at Belmont and the Arc, with a $2 minimum and 18.5 percent takeout. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage bettors through the NYRA Bets platform, which offers promotions leading up to the Breeders' Cup. The success of these events and promotions could influence future collaborations between NYRA and major sports networks, potentially expanding the reach and popularity of horse racing in the U.S.
