Coronavirus means a virtual version of the tour will take place over the weekend

The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has meant that this year’s Route des Etalons - the French Stallion Tour - will take place virtually over the weekend. 

Some of the biggest studs in France, including Haras d’Etreham and Haras de Bonneval, are participating and stallions parading will include Cambridge Stud shuttler Almanzor (Wootton Bassett), Arrowfield-based Shalaa (Invincible Spirit) and Swettenham Stud shuttler Toronado (High Chaparral). 

"The website is supporting breeders, stud farms, racing and breeding enthusiasts to meet online stallions stationed in Normandy,” said a release from the Federation des Eleveurs du Galop. 

"Whether they are new to the stallion ranks or already established, the sires will be shown through videos, photos, performance sheets and pedigrees."

Videos will be uploaded here from Saturday morning.