Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe 2025

 Early starts and international travel do not always go hand in hand with excitement, but this Friday morning felt different from the outset. As everyone made their own way to London St Pancras and gathered in the Eurostar check-in area, there was a shared sense that something special was about to begin. Passports ready, tickets scanned, and bags in hand, the stage was set for an unforgettable few days in Paris.

By mid-morning, Eurostar 9018 rolled out of St Pancras, carrying us away from London and towards France. The journey passed quickly, helped by good company, racing chat, and the familiar thrill of watching the English countryside blur into tunnels and then open up again on the other side of the channel. Just after 2 pm local time, we arrived at Paris Gare du Nord.

A comfortable coach transfer delivered us straight into the heart of the city, to the Mercure Paris Centre Gare Montparnasse. Perfectly placed for exploring Paris, the hotel offered easy access to cafes, theatres, and iconic landmarks. After a day at leisure to soak up the atmosphere of the French Capital, welcome drinks were hosted that brought the group together, setting the tone for a relaxed, sociable weekend ahead.

Saturday was dedicated entirely to Paris itself. After breakfast at the hotel, the day stretched out with endless possibilities. Some wandered through nearby neighbourhoods, others found themselves lingering over coffee in classic Parisian cafes, while a few chose to make their way to Longchamp to catch the opening day of racing. Whether exploring historic streets, strolling through gardens, or simply enjoying the rhythm of the city, it was a day to savour Paris at your own pace.

Sunday arrived with a sense of occasion. Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe day is not just a race meeting; it is one of the greatest sporting spectacles in the world. Following breakfast, the group gathered in the hotel reception before boarding the coach to the Paris Longchamp racecourse. Anticipation built as the grandstand came into view, the buzz unmistakable as racing fans from across the globe converged for the historic event.

With the gates opening mid-morning, the day unfolded in a crescendo of colour, atmosphere and world-class racing. The ceremonial parade of the Republican Guard set the scene, followed by a strong supporting card that showcased the very best of international flat racing. Then, just after 4 pm, all eyes turned to the main event, the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

The roar of the crowd, the tension at the stalls, and the thunder of hooves down the Longchamp straight created a moment that truly lived up to its reputation. This was racing at its very highest level: drama, brilliance and history unfolding in front of thousands. As the sun dipped lower and the final race played out, there was time to reflect on having witnessed something truly special.

By early evening, the coaches returned the group to the hotel, tired but buzzing from a day that delivered everything the Arc promises. Conversations carried on long into the night, replaying moments from the track and sharing highlights from a remarkable weekend.

As everyone went their separate ways, there was a shared feeling that this had been a trip to remember, a perfect blend of travel, racing and the distinctive magic of Paris.