Stoute has ground worry for Workforce Arc bid

TRAINER Sir Michael Stoute on Thursday issued concerns about the ground for last year's Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner Workforce, who will bid for a historic double under jockey Ryan Moore at Longchamp on Sunday.

Workforce has been off the track since finishing second to Nathaniel in the Betfair-sponsored King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot in July and is a general 7-1 chance for the Longchamp showpiece, for which the ground could ride quick.

"He's had a nice break since Ascot and I've been very, very happy with his preparation," Stoute said.

"We took him to Sandown last week where he had a satisfactory workout. It would have brought him on a bit more but I'm more disappointed with the weather forecast.

"He's a big, heavy horse and we do like good ground for him. We will get someone to have a look at the ground for us and I am concerned about it at the moment."

Workforce just held on from Nakayama Festa in last season's Arc and will bid to follow up under regular rider Moore, who makes his comeback from injury at Ascot on Friday.

Stoute, speaking on At the Races, added: "I've been very pleased with his performances this season and 1m4f is his best distance. This was Ryan's target and he's done well to meet it. It does look a particularly strong renewal this year."