Last year's Prix Niel winner Kizuna will not be returning to Paris this autumn for a second attempt at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe due to injury.

The now four-year-old Kizuna sustained a small fracture to his near-hind leg when disappointing in fourth in the Tenno Sho last time and will be off the scene until at least the back end of the season.

There he is expected to be aimed at local features with trips abroad seemingly off the table.

"I think it happened in the race. It's not too serious, so I'm sure he'll be able to return. I'll consider the Arima Kinen for his next run, but we'll see how he is nearer the time," said trainer Shozo Sasaki.

Japan are still set to be well represented in the Arc with the world's highest rated horse Just A Way aimed that way along with three-year-old filly Harp Star, multiple Group One winner Gold Ship, and talented three-year-old Red Reveur.