Widespread ridicule greeted France's decision to reduce the distance of its Derby to an extended ten furlongs while promoting the Grand Prix de Paris, run five weeks later, as a more suitable test for three-year-olds over 12 furlongs. The shuffle was prompted by the belief that such horses were better served by having more time to mature.

However, the merits of that decision became apparent last night when Montmartre landed the Grand Prix at Longchamp with consummate ease. So much so that Ladbrokes quoted the son of Montjeu at just 4-1 for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. And with good reason.

Montmartre simply toyed with opponents that had featured prominently in the Derbys of Epsom and the Curragh. Doctor Fremantle, who finished fourth at Epsom, occupied a similar position behind Montmartre, yet the latter, who accelerated clear approaching the final furlong, was eased down long before the finish.

The Aga Khan's homebred, who raced prominently all the way, finished clear of Prospect Park, Madagan and Doctor Fremantle, all of whom raced towards the rear behind a strong gallop. And the outcome suggests that Montmartre is at least the equal of New Approach, the Derby winner who has been sidelined by injury.

Alain de Royer-Dupré, who trains Montmartre, considered saddling the grey against New Approach at Epsom. He opted instead for the French Derby, where the inexperienced colt became upset by a public address system that could be heard half a mile away.

As for the Aga Khan, he holds an embarrassment of Arc riches. The unbeaten Zarkava headed the market before Montmartre exploded onto the scene. Expect a revision of plans that will see Montmartre become the owner/breeder's prime candidate for Europe's middle-distance championship. Portentously, the Grand Prix has already delivered four Arc winners in the past 18 years.