Aga Khan Legacy Continues as Two Fillies Vie for Diane Glory
Family Silks to the Forefront in Prestigious French Classic
Chantilly Racecourse is set to witness a compelling chapter in racing history this Sunday as two fillies, representing the esteemed Aga Khan family, compete in the G1 Prix de Diane Longines. The race holds particular significance following the passing of Prince **Aga Khan IV**, the most successful owner in the Diane’s history with seven victories.
Contenders Prepare for the Challenge
Both **Mandanaba** and **Cankoura**, trained by **Francis-Henri Graffard**, carry the hopes of the Aga Khan legacy. **Mandanaba**, a daughter of Ghaiyyath, enters the race off a third-place finish in the G1 Prix d’Essai des Pouliches. Notably, she is the final foal of the champion mare **Mandesha**, a three-time Group 1 winner for Princess **Zahra Aga Khan**.
**Nemone Routh**, racing manager for the Aga Khan, explained the decision to run **Mandanaba** in the Diane. “We hesitated for a long time between the Saint-Alary and the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches,”
she said. “The Poule, being a Classic and a Group 1, was ultimately the preferred choice. Her performance there was very good. She has speed, but her pedigree suggests she can stay 2000 metres.”
The French racing industry contributes significantly to the national economy, generating over €2.3 billion in revenue and supporting 40,000 jobs annually. (France Galop)
Cankoura’s Rising Form
**Cankoura**, a daughter of Persian King, brings a winning streak to the Diane, having secured victory in the Prix Finland at ParisLongchamp on May 22nd. Prior to that, she finished fourth in the Listed Prix des Lilas. **Routh** noted a slight setback in the Prix des Lilas. “In the Prix des Lilas, she was really unlucky. **Mickael Barzalona** didn’t ask too much of her.”
“We had expected a more striking performance [in the Finlande], but she needed the run, as she hadn’t done much work between the Lilas and the Finlande. Also, the ground was a little too soft for her.”
—Nemone Routh, Aga Khan Racing Manager
**Cankoura** will be ridden by **Clement Lecoeuvre**. Both fillies are expected to race prominently, a tactic favored at Chantilly when the ground is firm.
A Race Steeped in Tradition
**Routh** emphasized the importance of the Prix de Diane to the late Prince **Aga Khan IV**. “The Diane was a race very dear to the Prince. For many years, one of the stable’s key aims each season has been to field runners with genuine chances in this Classic.”
She added that the Aga Khan Studs prioritize breeding fillies capable of succeeding in such races, with the intention of returning them to stud to continue the lineage.
The outcome of Sunday’s race will not only determine a champion but also serve as a poignant tribute to a legendary figure in thoroughbred racing. The Aga Khan’s commitment to breeding and racing excellence ensures his influence will continue to shape the sport for generations to come.