The famous horse Il Est Francais changed its stable: preparing for King George.

Harry Est Francais has moved to a new trainer

According to The Sun: One of the most famous racehorses in the world, Il Est Francais, has changed trainers and is now preparing for the important King George Chase, which will take place on St. Stephen's Day.

Il Est Francais looked unbeatable when he won the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase in 2023.

However, after being trained by Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm in France, his results in three races were 5-1-PU before he returned to Kempton last Christmas.

He seemed a potential winner of King George, but was overtaken by Benbridge in the final moments.

In the Ryanair race, he lost by 26 lengths to Fact To File, and ended the season in third place in the Listed hurdle at Compiegne, despite running as the 3-5 favorite.

'If I was the owner I'd try a change of scenery!' @MCYeeehaaa suggests that changing stables could resolve Il Est Francais's issues after disappointment in Prix du Cher… pic.twitter.com/XCsh1kt7QI

— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) May 14, 2025

Among other opinions, Sun Racing columnist Matt Chapman previously noted that a change of environment could help the horse regain its career.

According to Nick Luck's podcast, Il Est Francais has indeed changed training locations, although it may not be permanent.

He is currently being trained by Noel's father, Tom, on the Down farm in Slad Valley, just 30 minutes away from Cheltenham.

Tom, Noel, and Amanda are working together daily discussing plans for the season for this outstanding rider.

For now, it is undecided whether he will stay at the new training facility or return to France, but King George is once again on his plans.

Il Est Francais is preparing for a return to the track in November, which will give him the chance to compete in one race before the big event on St. Stephen's Day.

He is actively training and, as they say, feels well in the new environment, although the question of his further training location remains open.

Tom commented on the podcast: “He is in full training here, but there are no specific plans regarding his next steps. Many of Noel and Amanda's horses come to us for rest and holidays. We do what is best for each horse individually. There are plenty of races in France for him, but he started to lose options.

“I am not sure if he should go to Auteuil on very firm ground, as there are few races in Compiegne. He prefers right-handed tracks - both of those in France are left-handed - and although I don't think that is necessary, he definitely prefers them.”

“I think the change in training has helped him and he had some rest. We know how much he enjoys Kempton, and that's probably his target, but getting there is still a long way.”

“We couldn't be more pleased with his condition. As for whether he will race in France or England, that has yet to be determined, but he is in excellent form.”

Il Est Francais's transition to a new trainer could be crucial for rebuilding his racing career. A change of environment is sometimes an unexpected but effective way for horses that have lost form, which is why many fans hope that the new trainer will help him get back on the winning track. We will follow further news and races that will take place soon.