Although Vincennes hosts a sumptuous card this Saturday, many eyes will be turned to Cagnes-sur-Mer for the Gr.2 Grand Prix du Département des Alpes-Maritimes, run over a mile and worth a not-inconsequential €180,000.

Won in 2022 by the talented Vivid Wise As, beating the remarkable Etonnant, this year’s field similarly has quality in depth, Bleff Dipa a case in point. Third 12 months ago, and most recently a superb second in the in the Prix de Washington, Etonnant will be absent this time, theoretically leaving the way clear for Roberto Vecchione to work his magic. Following the winter break, Holger Ehlert’s 6 year-old has finished bridesmaid on four successive occasions, and it would be fitting for him to get that monkey off his back.

One of the main threats will, unsurprisingly, come from Elitlopp 2nd, Go On Boy, who enjoyed a fruitful spring in the nordics. Very much at his ease over a mile, and a 7-times winner at Cagnes, Romain Derieux’s horse is a serious proposition.

Impressive at home in his native Italy, Capital Mail has simply thrived since moving stables. He met no opposition on his way to Gr.2 Critérium de Vitesse de Basse-Normandie glory a fortnight ago and it would be no surprise to see him impose on Saturday.

Héliade Du Goutier must also be worth a mention. Winner of her only start over 1600m, she reassured at La Rochelle last month and is sure to generate interest.

Eclat De Gloire, Ecureuil Jénilou, and El Greco Bello are all decent horses in their own right, but will require some luck in running to play a leading role this weekend.