The French Derby at Chantilly draws 16 runners for a £745,000 purse. Aidan O'Brien’s Constitution River, despite a stall‑15 draw, tops the betting after the trainer skipped Epsom for French glory. Other early favourites include Daryzan, Hawk Mountain, Komorebi, Dolmalan and Hankelow.

Declan Rix backs French‑trained Komorebi, noting the horse’s 2000 Guineas sprint and better ground conditions. He warns the 10‑furlong speed could test stamina on fast ground, making the runner a solid value each‑way. Kate Tracey favours Dolmalan, citing a recent trial win and a potential Arc berth that could signal top class.

Sam Boswell targets Montreal, who will run at Chantilly instead of Epsom. Wayne Lordan’s recent Guineas victories give the horse a strong front‑end edge and stamina to finish. Though a lesser favourite among O'Brien’s stable, Montreal could outpace odds and prove a massive contender in the classic.

With the Derby’s purse at £745,000, a win would cement the winner’s status as a top sprinter‑middle distance horse in Europe and boost its future stud value. The race also serves as a key prep for the Arc, making any of the leading contenders’s performance a bellwether for the season’s elite. Montreal’s potential hinges on Lordan’s execution at the start.