Samangan

2023 c. Blue Point - Samadrisa (Oasis Dream)

Trained by Francis-Henri Graffard

Samangan is by Blue Point out of Samadrisa, making him a half-brother to Stakes winner Simeen.

This speedy juvenile, one of the fastest and most precocious Aga Khan-bred colts since Siyouni, was fourth on debut in July 2025, but with experience under his belt swiftly followed up with a hat-trick of wins.

He broke his maiden by an impressive four and a half lengths at Deauville's August meeting, and then took two easy Group victories at Chantilly - the Gr.3 Prix Eclipse and the Gr.2 Critérium de Maisons-Laffitte. 

Samangan returned to the track in April 2026, finishing second in the Gr.3 Prix Djebel. He ran an encouraging sixth in the Gr.1 Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, and placed a close fourth in the Gr.1 Prix Jean Prat.

In the Gr.1 Prix Maurice de Gheest, a race never before won by the Aga Khan Studs, Samangan was able to showcase his true talent, battling tenaciously to hold his lead from two furlongs out. 

“It was certainly not a thing of the past, as my father didn't like sprinters – my great grandfather had them and we are adding back some speed so we can protect our Classic distance families as well,” said Princess Zahra Aga Khan. “Certainly, for the moment, having some sprinters and middle-distance horses is lovely.

“I thank Francis [Graffard, trainer] and Mickael [Barzalona, jockey], as they had a plan for this and Mickael knew exactly where he wanted to be and who he wanted to follow and he did exactly that. The horse then showed his turn of foot and that was fantastic.”

“He needed to gain experience and so his races have toughened him up and this victory is the result of that,” added Graffard. “Today, he was able to produce his effort in a very composed way, without rushing and I am very pleased for the team at home. His next target could be the Prix de la Forêt, provided the ground is not too testing for him. He is a Group 1 winner and exceptionally well-bred, so he has earned his place at stud as a stallion. My job is done!”