A DAY on from Baaeed’s scintillating performance in the Juddmonte International and two unexpected options have added a twist to the autumn of his career.

It has long been stated Ascot’s British Champions Day would be the scene of his farewell performance – most probably for the Champion Stakes.

But now the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on September 10th has come into the reckoning, should it be felt the unbeaten colt needs a run before Ascot on October 15th.

And having looked a remote possibility, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe has now been talked about.

Speaking to ITV Racing on Thursday afternoon at York, Baaeed’s trainer William Haggas said: “Ultimately the decision is with Sheikha Hissa and I’m sure it (Arc) will be discussed and every option is open – it’s got to be after what he did yesterday.

“We’ll see what evolves. I think the only chance of seeing him more than once (before retirement) is if he doesn’t go for the Arc and goes Irish Champion and Champion. I think you’ll only see him once (more) in England but, as I say, it’s not my decision. We’ll discuss it and as long as the horse is okay all options are still open.”

Baaeed has been awarded a rating of 135 following his International romp, putting him behind only the legendary Frankel (140) and his sire Sea The Stars (136) since the rankings began 18 years ago.

The British Horseracing Authority’s head of handicapping Dominic Gardiner-Hill said: “I will be raising Baaeed 7lb from 128 to 135 for his success in the Juddmonte International yesterday – a figure only bettered by Frankel and Sea The Stars since the inception of the World’s Best Racehorse Rankings in 2004.”

He added a full explanation of the rating will be published next week.