Racing: Americain to defend Cup title

French invader Americain has November 1 in his sights as he prepares for the 2011 Melbourne Cup. Photo / Getty Images

Plans for Americain to defend his Melbourne Cup title are well advanced, says one of the French-trained stayer's Australian owners.

"He's got two runs: a listed race next week and then in three weeks' another group two race over 3000m, which he won last year," said part-owner Gerry Ryan from London.

"Then, he'll go into quarantine at Newmarket [in England] and then back to Melbourne."

Ryan believed quarantine issues which have threatened European participation at this year's Melbourne spring carnival had been resolved.

A final clearance on overseas quarantine protocols from the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) is likely to be given during a meeting with Racing Victoria officials tomorrow.

"We are meeting with AQIS and it's likely we might have a resolution then," said Racing Victoria's Melbourne Cup talent scout Leigh Jordan.

"Certainly, everything is heading in the right direction.

"A lot of it is dealing with issues and finding solutions before going through the logistics. To be 100 per cent I wouldn't like to commit to anything before Thursday's meeting.

"But there needs to be a decision made because nominations close for the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate next week and people need confirmation."

Ryan, who is providing the financial backing for the formation of an Australian-based professional cycling team, has been in France to watch Cadel Evans win the Tour de France.

The Melbourne businessman took time out from Australian celebrations to visit Americain at trainer Alain De Royer-Dupre's Chantilly stables.

"He looks as good as last year, he's got his mind back on the job," Ryan said.

Americain last year became the first French horse to win the Melbourne Cup, when he overpowered Maluckyday and So You Think.

The stayer then finished third in the Hong Kong Vase in December but was below par in two starts in France earlier this year.

"He had a couple of runs because the trainer wanted to go to Royal Ascot," Ryan said. "We always said we wanted to go back to Melbourne so they tipped him out again."

Americain is one of 21 entries for the Prix de Reux on Tuesday while his last start in France before embarking on another Australian trip is expected to be the Prix Kergolay (3000m) at Deauville.

- AAP