Aux Ptits Soins has Gold Cup future, says Hales

Leading owner John Hales is already dreaming of a potential Cheltenham Gold Cup tilt with Aux Ptits Soins after the French import starred in a treble for Paul Nicholls by landing the Coral Cup.

Hales is no stranger to Festival success, having walked into the hallowed winner’s enclosure with the likes of One Man and Azertyuiop, but glory in the blue riband has so far eluded him.

Aux Ptits Soins lined up in one of the most fiercely competitive handicaps of the week as a fascinating contender, making his first start in Britain and his first appearance since winning at Auteuil last autumn.