New Format Announced for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe Draw
Updated: May 18, 2026 at 4:10 pm
In 2026, the draw for the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe will be unveiled on the evening of Thursday, October 1 when France Galop hosts the official launch ceremony of the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe weekend.
As with all Flat races in France, starting gates will be drawn electronically on the morning of Thursday, October 1, under the supervision of a Commissioner of Justice. However, the result of the draw will not be released until the evening ceremony as part of a new initiative being introduced by France Galop, with the aim of building anticipation in the days leading up to Europe's richest race.
The same format will also apply to the Qatar Arabian World Cup, with the various entry deadlines also being brought forward by one day. Final declarations will be made on Thursday, 1 October.
Meanwhile, for both the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and the Arabian World Cup, the deadline for the declaration of jockeys and equipment will be extended until 10.30pm on Thursday, 1 October.
Entries for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe close at 10.30am (local time) on Wednesday, May 20.