Flavien Prat, the Eclipse Award-winning jockey, was criticized by French trainer Jerome Reynier for his ride on Facteur Cheval in the Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 18. Reynier said Prat positioned the horse too close to the early pace.
What happened?
Reynier's criticism came after Facteur Cheval faded to sixth in the race. Reynier stated that Prat's ride was the worst he had seen since becoming a trainer.
Prat was selected for the ride by Barry Irwin, principal of Team Valor, who called him the 'best turf rider in America'. However, Reynier believes Prat brought too much of his North American style to the ride.
Why it matters for Flavien Prat
Reynier's comments may impact Prat's reputation as a jockey. Prat has won nearly 2,000 races and has ranked in the top five in earnings among jockeys every year since 2021.
What comes next?
Facteur Cheval may get another opportunity over 2,000 meters in the Group 1 Bayerisches Zuchtrennen in Munich on July 27. Reynier found redemption later in the week, saddling Lazzat to victory in Saturday's Group 1 Queen Elizabeth ll Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Reynier's criticism of Prat's ride was harsh, with him saying that Prat did 'absolutely nothing to help' Facteur Cheval. Prat started his career in France before moving to the U.S. in 2015.
The Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes was run on June 18, with Facteur Cheval finishing sixth. Prat won last year's Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey and also captured the Breeders Cup Classic aboard Sierra Leone.
Reynier's comments highlight the differences between North American and European racing styles. Prat's experience in both styles may be an advantage, but it also led to criticism in this case.
The outcome of the Group 1 Bayerisches Zuchtrennen in Munich on July 27 will be closely watched, as Facteur Cheval looks to redeem itself after the disappointing result at Royal Ascot. Prat's performance will also be under scrutiny, as he looks to bounce back from Reynier's criticism.