Arc too soon for Montmartre

Alain De Royer-Dupre has now all but ruled Montmartre out of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

The Aga Khan’s colt leapt to prominence in the betting for Europe’s richest race with a stunning victory in the Grand Prix de Paris.

But those exertions left their mark and he picked up an injury, meaning he faced a race against time to be fit for the October 5 showpiece.

“We haven’t now really got enough time to prepare him for the Arc de Triomphe,” said Royer-Dupre.

Instead, Royer-Dupre now relies on the brilliant filly Zarkava, also owned by the Aga Khan and unbeaten in five starts.

“Zarkava is just fine,” he told the Racing Post.