Chantilly racecourse to the north of Paris, France, is the home of some of Europe’s most prestigious horse racing events, including the Prix de Diane, which will make its return this summer. Between its world-class participants and stunning backdrops, the Prix de Diane is considered a French Classic. It is even sometimes referred to as the French Oaks, a nod to the famous Oaks race in England that is run at Epsom Downs.
The History of Prix de Diane
What Can We Expect This Year?
Famous Past Participants
Over the years, the Prix de Diane has had world-class horses participate in its race, adding to the reputation and overall attraction of the event. That said, not much else was needed to convince spectators to attend this event, thanks to its stunning backdrop of an 18th-century architectural masterpiece called the Great Stables, designed by architect Jean Aubert. Several horses that won the event have also gone on to win other famous competitions, including the English Oaks and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
In 1976, Pawneese dominated the Epsom Oaks race in England, winning by five lengths. The same year, she ruled the Prix de Diane, where she won by eleven and a half lengths. Most recently, in 2013, we saw thoroughbred Treve go unbeaten in four races, including the Prix de Diane and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, one of the most prestigious all-aged horse races in Europe.
The Prix de Diane is not the only horse racing event that bettors will be placing wagers on this summer. June will feature several events, including the Coronation Cup at Epsom and races at the Royal Ascot, such as the Queen Anne Stakes and St James’s Palace Stakes, a Group 1 flat race. Still, spectators and bettors should keep an eye on the Prix de Diane at the end of the month, not just to see if Philomene takes home the title, but because the race has beautiful history and scenery.
You can find more interesting articles in our section on Horse Racing.
