Aidan O’Brien will run two fillies in the Group 1 Prix de Diane at Chantilly on June 14, with Diamond Necklace confirmed and Moments Of Joy a strong possibility [1, 2]. Diamond Necklace is the stable’s first choice, boasting an unbeaten record with four wins from four starts, including a victory in the Group 1 Poule d’Essai des Pouliches (French 1000 Guineas) [1, 2].
Other Ballydoyle nominees Beautify and White Sand Beach are less likely to run in the race [1, 2].
The Prix de Diane is a prestigious 2,100-meter race open exclusively to three-year-old fillies, known to be tough to win [1, 2]. The event offers a €1 million prize [1, 2].
O’Brien, who has contested the Prix de Diane 11 times since 2006, said the key to victory lies in maintaining an even pace rather than relying on complex tactics. He explained, "It’s always straightforward and I think it suits everybody when there’s an even pace. I don’t think it’s ever about tactics. All we ever want is an evenly run race and then everybody finds out where they stand afterwards and whether their horse gets the trip or doesn’t get the trip." [1]
He added, "Obviously, the Diane is a very prestigious race at Chantilly, it’s very important for a filly. And it is a Classic – obviously, it’s a tough race to win. So you need a very good filly to do it, really, we always think. We’ll probably run two fillies, Diamond Necklace and one of the others. It could be Moments Of Joy, we’re thinking of running." [1]
O’Brien’s stable has nearly 450 Group wins worldwide, making him one of the leading trainers in international racing [1, 2].
The Prix de Diane is scheduled for June 14 at Chantilly, where the fillies will compete for the top prize in a race often decided by pace and stamina more than tactics [1, 2].