Mafki claims prize scalps

Makfi claimed the prized scalps of Goldikova and Paco Boy when springing a surprise in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.

The 2000 Guineas winner left a dismal display in the St James’s Palace Stakes behind him to show his Classic win was no fluke.

The Mikel Delzangles-trained colt led inside the final furlong and drew away from his field on the rain-softened ground to score comfortably from Goldikova with Paco Boy just behind in third.

As expected, Goldikova's two pacemakers Saying and Only Green set off in front with the brilliant mare on their tails.

Makfi had a nice position with Christophe Soumillon getting plenty of cover while Paco Boy was at the rear towards the far side.

Although Goldikova took the lead as planned she could not quite produce her trademark acceleration in the testing conditions.

It was Makfi who had the potent turn of foot and he swept into the lead to put clear daylight between his two talented older rivals.