Fourth race on Saturday’s Vincennes card, the Gr.2 Prix Albert Demarcq is always an interesting contest, pitting the elite of the 5 year-old generation over the exacting 2850m on the main track. Notable recent winners include Détroit Castelets who set the fastest time of 1’12"2 in 2018, and Hooker Berry in 2022, before going on to win the Prix d’Amérique the following winter.

Only Jasper Des Charmes has matched the record time under these conditions, however he is being prepared for a campaign in the other discipline. Just one tenth of a second slower though, Just A Gigolo will be very much in focus, as much for the fact that he has not been seen out since 27 January, as for not having won since last September.

Most notable change in tactics is Philippe Allaire’s decision to engage Gabriele Gelormini, Franck Nivard reuniting with Jazzman Debailleul, a progressive trotter of immense potential, but whether he can break through on Saturday remains to be seen. Allaire has also opted for a previously successful configuration, which may just pay dividends.

Jiosco de Phyt’s faulted with the Gr.2 Prix Robert Auvray in his grasp, but thrives with Eric Raffin reining and could just be the horse to beat. Third that day, the first time he was beaten when barefoot, Jason boasts an excellent record over the main-track 2850m and similarly appears to be in with a realistic shout.

J'Aime le Foot has not imposed at Vincennes for almost two years but he cannot be faulted at present and, while missing that little spark, can still finish in the mix. Jag Stryck’s form is on the right trajectory and he must be taken seriously, as should Jack Tonic who pulled off quite the coup to win the Robert Auvray.