France Galop, the governing body of French horseracing, has announced a partnership with 1/ST, a North American thoroughbred racing and pari-mutuel wagering company.

The collaboration between these two entities aims to establish a series of partnerships that will foster increased international involvement in a range of graded contests and race days.

The initiative kicks off with the $100,000 Grade 3 Gallorette Stakes on Preakness 149 race day at 1/ST’s Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore – scheduled for 18 May.

The winner of the Gallorette Stakes will earn an automatic qualification to compete in the €250,000 Group 1 Prix Jean Romanet Stakes at Deauville on 18 August, along with a complimentary equine travel stipend for transportation to France.

Regarding the partnership, Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, commented: “1/ST is thrilled to create another great global partnership, breaking new ground in France with our friends at France Galop.

“This Gallorette-Romanet pathway is an exciting trial for hopefully more reciprocal race days in France, considering France Galop’s rich heritage in staging many of the most prestigious turf contests in Europe at courses like Deauville, Chantilly and Longchamp.

“We look forward to announcing more global racing partnerships over the year ahead. Whether we’re bolstering the brand, increasing horse recruitment numbers or driving wagering dollars overseas, it’s high time for more innovative moments on the worldwide racing stage.”

Henri Pouret, CEO at France Galop, added: “We're naturally delighted to be teaming up with 1/ST on this compelling initiative which will introduce many new French racing fans to Preakness 149 and add some welcome transatlantic flavour to the Group 1 Sumbe Prix Jean Romanet Stakes.”