Location: Chantilly, France

Nicolas is famed as the youngest trainer ever to win the prestigious Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and has been among the leading trainers in France for over thirty years. He has had a highly successful career to date with over 1000 winners, including 40 Group victories in France and abroad.

Nicolas has a gift for spotting inexpensive talent, for instance, his Criterium International (Gr 1) winner French Fifteen, who was beaten a neck in the English 2000 Guineas by Camelot, was purchased for just €30,000.

Prior to taking out his own license in 1988, Nicolas worked as a pupil assistant to John Gosden in California and Vincent O’Brien in Ireland. He then returned to France, where he became assistant to Mr Francois Boutin. Nicolas’ father, Miguel, was a leading trainer in France, most notably having won the French Derby with Nelcius. This saw Nicolas raised in the business, exercising horses for his father from a young age. His brother, Christophe, is also a successful trainer in America.

Nicolas is fluent in English and is comfortable in Spanish, which is a great asset in communicating with owners. The yard ensures owners are always well-informed, providing regular updates. Highclere enjoys being able to host owners in scenic Chantilly to see their horses exercise on the famed gallops.