Prix Marcel Boussac

BLUE ROSE CEN winning the Prix Marcel Boussac at Hippodrome de ParisLongchamp in Paris, France. Picture: Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images

The Prix Marcel Boussac is a Group 1 race run under Set Weight conditions for two year old fillies at Longchamp conducted by France Galop.

The Prix Marcel Boussac is run over 1600m. It was first run in 1969 and was won by Vela. It was known as the Criterium des Pouliches.

It is the only Group 1 in France solely for two year old fillies.

It is named after famous owner and breeder Marcel Boussac who chaired the French Racing body.

Given it is a mile for the babies, it has produced some staying types. Found, Zarkava and Allez France are Arc winners too.

The Prix Marcel Boussac is run on Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe day.

The 2016 and 2017 editions were run at Chantilly as Longchamp was under its long term redevelopment.

There are 6 jockeys with three wins each – Lester Piggott, Yves Saint-Martin, Alain Lequeux, Willie Carson, Olivier Peslier and Ryan Moore. Three trainers have 5 wins each being Pascal Bary, Criquette Head-Maarek and Aidan O'Brien.

Blue Rose Cen won the Prix Marcel Boussac and then came back to take both the Pouliches and the Diane at G1 level.

The last non-French winner was Opera Singer in 2023 for Aidan O'Brien.

The Prix Marcel Boussac was worth €400,000 in 2023.

Notable winners of the Prix Marcel Boussac include Blue Rose Cen (2022), Albigna (2019), Found (2014), Elusive Kate (2013), Misty For Me (2010), Zarkava (2007), Finsceal Beo (2006), Divine Proportions (2004), Ryafan (1996), Gold Splash (1992), Culture Vulture (1991), Shadayid (1990), Salsabil (1989), Miesque (1986), Midway Lady (1985), Triptych (1984) and Allez France (1972).

The 2023 Prix Marcel Boussac was won by Opera Singer from Rose Bloom and Les Pavots.