The Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is one of the greatest horse race meetings in the world, if not the most important due to its price: 4,000,000 €. The race is open to thoroughbreds aged three years or older. The Parisian Longchamp hippodrome is the place to be during this first weekend of October. Over a distance of 1½ mile the contenders look for the victory. Since 2008, the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club signed a sponsorship with its French homologue: the result was a price increase of 100%.

But apart from the horses, this meeting shines for the glamour and style that embellishes the turf. Notably, it’s a weekend for hats. Hippodromes and hats have an affair that has lasted for decades. And every year, in Longchamp, this alliance is renovated.

The big winner of the 91^st Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe was an unexpected horse, the four year old filly Solemia (#10), owned by the Wertheimer brothers (owners of Chanel) and trained by Carlos Laffon-Parias. Solemia’s jockey, Olivier Peslier, demanded to his horse in the last 100 meters to beat the favorite Orfevre (#6) at the arrival. A very soft ground and a shorter trajectory taken by the winner produced the big surprise: Solemia payed to its supporters 42/1.

The day proved to be successful for Carlos Laffon-Parias/Olivier Peslier and the Wertheimer brothers, as they also won the Total Prix Marcel Boussac.

Over 52,000 people were enjoying this magnificent Sunday at Longchamp. Fall conquering the French capital, its nostalgic aura gave this epic event a lingering taste and a promising future.