Friendly Soul added another major European prize to her record on Sunday, September 6, winning the Group 1 Qatar Prix Vermeille at ParisLongchamp and putting a new Arc decision in front of her connections.
The five year old British trained mare defeated a field of 13 in the 2,400 meter test, one of the principal late season races for fillies and mares in France. France Galop confirmed the result and noted that the victory gives Friendly Soul a Wild Card for the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on October 4, even though she had not originally been entered for the race.
That creates an interesting choice. Friendly Soul also has a proven alternative on Arc weekend: the Prix de l’Opéra Longines, a race she won in 2024. Her connections can now weigh another attempt in that division against taking on the broader championship field in the Arc itself.
Why the Vermeille matters
The Prix Vermeille is not just another Group 1. Run over the same 2,400 meter trip as the Arc at ParisLongchamp, it is one of the most important final stage tests for elite fillies and mares headed toward France’s championship weekend.
Friendly Soul arrived off a runner up finish in the Group 1 Nassau Stakes at Goodwood. Sunday’s result marked her fourth Group race victory and second at Group 1 level, according to France Galop.
The official result listed Pink Panthera in second and Sunly in third. Friendly Soul was ridden by James Doyle for trainers John and Thady Gosden.
A wider Arc picture is taking shape
The Vermeille was part of a major Arc Trials card at ParisLongchamp that also included the Prix Niel and Prix Foy. Those races helped sharpen the picture four weeks before the Arc, with several established and emerging contenders delivering significant performances.
OTB Bet will continue following the major international championship races as the season moves toward October. For the broader calendar, visit the OTB Bet Race Center, and for current developments see the latest horse racing news.
Source: France Galop official race coverage, September 6, 2026. Featured image: Lumin Osity / Unsplash.
