This looks a strong Group 3, with several runners bringing form from a higher level, and Cualificar sets the standard.
Andre Fabre's four-year-old has been admirably consistent outside his Arc disappointment and produced another career-best effort when second in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud last month. The drop from 1m4f to 1m2f should not inconvenience him given his previous form over this trip, and a repeat of his recent level would make him difficult to beat.
Leffard is potentially the biggest danger if bouncing back. Last year's Grand Prix de Paris winner had been running consistently well at Group 1 and Group 2 level before finishing well behind Cualificar at Saint-Cloud. That latest effort needs forgiving, but his earlier second and third at Longchamp this spring suggest he retains plenty of ability. Back at 1m2f, he could be a serious threat.
Map Of Stars returned to something close to his best when winning the Wolferton Stakes at Royal Ascot, beating Wimbledon Hawkeye over this trip. The first-time cheekpieces appeared to have a positive effect and, if they work as well again, he has the form to play a major part. Wimbledon Hawkeye subsequently finished third in a Group 1 in Munich and is closely matched with him. He reportedly raced against the pace bias there, so that performance may be better than the bare result.
Last year's winner First Look should not be dismissed either. He has repeatedly performed around a strong Group-race level and conditions are suitable, although his latest effort in the Prix Ganay was disappointing and he has been absent since April.
Nitoi arrives in form after winning a Longchamp Group 3 in June. He is reliable enough, but this appears stronger and his 2lb penalty means he must concede weight to all eight rivals.
The progressive Hand Of God is the interesting outsider. His second in the John Smith's Cup at York was a career best and he remains relatively lightly raced for a five-year-old. This is a substantial rise in grade, however, and he needs another step forward to trouble the established Group performers.
Matauri Bay has something to find on his mile form and now tackles 1m2f for the first time, while Lakota Beau faces a major class rise and would need significant improvement.
Verdict
There is enough depth here to make this a better-than-average Group 3. Cualificar has the strongest combination of current form and proven high-class ability and looks the one they have to beat. Wimbledon Hawkeye is particularly interesting after his respectable Group 1 effort in Germany, while Leffard is dangerous if his Saint-Cloud run can be forgiven.
Selection: Cualificar
Main danger: Wimbledon Hawkeye
Potential improver: Hand Of God
Pre-race private standard: 116
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