Makfi beats Goldikova for Prix Jacques le Marois

Makfi was a surprise winner of the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket

French colt Makfi claimed the prized scalps of Goldikova and Paco Boy when springing a surprise to win the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville.

The 2,000 Guineas winner recovered from a poor run last time out in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

The horse, trained by Mikel Delzangles, led inside the final furlong and drew clear on the rain-softened ground

French mare Goldikova finished second with the Richard Hannon-trained Paco Boy in third.

Goldikova had been seeking to create history as the first European-trained horse to win 11 Group One races in her career.

As expected, her two pacemakers Saying and Only Green set off in front with the mare on their tails.

606: DEBATE It is about time Makfi was given some respect Alsilvo2

Makfi had a nice position with Christophe Soumillon getting plenty of cover while Paco Boy was at the rear towards the far side.

Although Goldikova took the lead as planned she could not quite produce her trademark acceleration in the testing conditions.

It was Makfi who had the more potent turn of foot and he swept into the lead to put clear daylight between his two older rivals.