Preis von Europa (Group 1)

GOLIATH returned to his best form when the six-year-old gelding added another Group 1 to his CV as he returned to winning ways in the Preis von Europa at Cologne on Sunday.

Winner of a Group 2 at Chantilly in May, the Resolute Bloodstock & Philip Baron Von Ullmann-owned gelding finished a close third in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot in June, but was well behind Kalpana last time in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

However, in the Von Ullmann colours, he bounced back in great style as Christophe Soumillon sent him clear into the straight and he stayed on well to beat the William Haggas-trained Dubai Honour a length and three-quarters.

It was a repeat of last year’s Group 1 Grosser Preis von Baden finish and the German-bred’s third Group 1 success.

Graffard, who has a huge week ahead with Daryz bidding for a second Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on Sunday, said: “He’s such a lovely horse and he’s the pet of the stable. Everyone loves him and he’s a very famous horse worldwide because of the way he walks and his character, and it was very nice to see him win so easily.

“We knew there was nobody to go in front, so we decided to jump well. He’s a horse who doesn’t need to be upset at the beginning of the race.

“When I saw him at the front, nice and relaxed with his ears pricked, I thought he was going to run a big race.”

Graffard said he will discuss future targets with his owners but he will likely be travelling, and with Hong Kong an option.