Makarova (GB), trained by Ed Walker for owner-breeders Brightwalton Bloodstock, claimed her first Group 1 victory in the Prix de l’Abbaye de Longchamp Longines (G1), overcoming previous rivals Bradsell (GB) and Believing (IRE) in the 5-furlong sprint. Last time out, Makarova finished third behind Bradsell in the Bar One Racing Flying Five Stakes (G1) at the Curragh. However, on softer ground following rain at ParisLongchamp, the daughter of Acclamation (GB) reversed the outcome, winning by 1 1/4 lengths ahead of Bradsell. Believing, encountering some traffic during the race, finished third.

For a moment, it seemed that Hollie Doyle, aboard Bradsell, might secure another victory, but Makarova, ridden by Doyle’s husband Tom Marquand, found her stride on the outside and surged to victory. Trainer Ed Walker confirmed that this would be Makarova’s final race, as she is set to be retired to stud.

Bradsell’s trainer, Archie Watson, noted that while his horse performed well on the soft ground, he was ultimately outpaced by the late-charging Makarova. Watson remains optimistic about Bradsell's chances in the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1) in November, provided the horse recovers well.

Makarova completed the 5 furlongs in 55.07 seconds, securing an automatic berth in the $1 million Prevagen Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint (G1).

Friendly Soul Shines in Prix de l'Opera

Friendly Soul (GB), owned by George Strawbridge, led a 1-2 finish for the John and Thady Gosden team in the Prix de l'Opera Longines (G1), holding off stablemate Running Lion (GB). The victory earned Friendly Soul, a daughter of Kingman (GB), an automatic entry into the $2 million Maker’s Mark Filly & Mare Turf (G1) at the Breeders’ Cup.

Ridden by Kieran Shoemark, Friendly Soul stayed close to the front throughout the race, overtaking early leader Almara (FR) and fending off a strong challenge from Running Lion. Sparkling Plenty (FR) took third place. After the race, John Gosden confirmed that Friendly Soul would head to the Breeders’ Cup next.

She completed the 1 1/4-mile race in 2:07.65.

Vertical Blue Stuns in Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac

The Qatar Prix Marcel Boussac - Criterium des Pouliches (G1) produced a major upset as Vertical Blue (IRE), trained by Francis-Henri Graffard, triumphed at odds of 100-1. She narrowly defeated 1-2 favorite Zarigana (GB) by a nose, earning a spot in the $1 million John Deere Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf (G1).

Settled toward the back of the field alongside Zarigana, Vertical Blue surged late under Mikael Barzalona to snatch victory from the favorite, who appeared poised to win. The pair were well behind the early pace set by Exactly (IRE) from Aidan O'Brien’s stable, but Vertical Blue found her stride just in time.

She covered the mile in 1:38.06, securing her automatic entry to the Breeders’ Cup.

Camille Pissarro Delivers in Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere

Camille Pissarro (IRE), co-owned by Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Mrs. John Magnier, and Peter Brant, surged late under a masterful ride from Christophe Soumillon to win the Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere (G1).

Held at the back of the pack, Camille Pissarro was given a perfect ride as the leaders, Misunderstood (FR) and Field of Gold (IRE), set a quick pace. As they battled for control, Camille Pissarro made his move, effortlessly passing them to claim the win. Rashabar (IRE) finished second, with Misunderstood taking third.

Camille Pissarro’s victory earned him a spot in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf (G1). He completed the 7-furlong race in 1:20.58 on soft ground.

These winners, part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, now have their entry fees for the World Championships covered, along with travel allowances for international starters. All Challenge winners must be nominated to the Breeders’ Cup program by the pre-entry deadline of Oct. 21 to qualify for the benefits.