Fantastic Moon Triumphs in Baden-Baden, Eyes Return to Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe

Fantastic Moon, the pride of German racing, has secured his place in the upcoming Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe after a masterful victory in the 154th Grosser Preis von Baden. The four-year-old son of Sea The Moon, trained by Sarah Steinberg, displayed his class and resilience, holding off a strong challenge from British contender Dubai Honour to claim the top spot.

Ridden by Rene Piechulek, known for his triumph aboard Torquator Tasso in the Arc, Fantastic Moon benefited from his preferred quick ground at Baden-Baden. The race saw a competitive field of six, including Dubai Honour, trained by William Haggas and fresh from a run in the King George at Ascot. Despite Dubai Honour's status as the even-money favorite, it was Fantastic Moon, offered at 21-10, who demonstrated his superiority.

The race unfolded with patience and precision as Piechulek kept a close watch on the market leader. In the final furlong and a half, the two horses engaged in a thrilling duel. However, it was Fantastic Moon who found an extra gear, making a bold move towards the stands rail and crossing the finish line a length and a quarter ahead of Dubai Honour.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Fantastic Moon, who had a commendable but ultimately unfulfilled run in last year's Arc, finishing 11th on ground that did not suit his style. His return to form this season, highlighted by a Group Two win in Cologne and a strong second in the Gross Dallmayr-Preis at Munich, has reignited hopes of a successful campaign in Paris.

Lars-Wilhelm Baumgarten, representing the Liberty Racing syndicate that owns Fantastic Moon, expressed his delight with the horse's performance. "What a day, what a horse. He is a star," Baumgarten exclaimed. "We are very happy with him. He was on his A-game on this ground, and it was a very good ride from Rene Piechulek. It was world class. He is the best horse in Germany, and we will go to the Arc now."

The excitement within the Liberty Racing camp is palpable as they prepare for another shot at one of the world's most prestigious races. Coral bookmakers have taken notice, trimming Fantastic Moon's odds to 25-1 for the Arc. Baumgarten added, "Our syndicate is very happy and excited to be going to Paris again."

With his exceptional turn of foot on good ground, Fantastic Moon has once again proven himself a force to be reckoned with on the European stage. As the racing world turns its attention to Paris, all eyes will be on this German star, who is poised to make his mark in the 2024 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.