It was a tense barrier draw for the Japanese contingent when Croix du Nord, the ninth name called, landed a wide barrier 17, and Byzantine Dream, drawn 10th, was assigned barrier 15, both unfavourable outside posts. However, fortunes turned when Alohi Alii was the 14th name called, securing the ideal barrier 4 for the Arc.

Trainer Hiroyasu Tanaka welcomed the result, saying, "I think it's a good barrier number. There's a long run to the first turn, but being inside is always an advantage." Notably, Gate 4 has produced four winners in the past, including Sottsass in 2020. With the potential to save ground, the draw provides a major boost for Alohi Alii.

The colt comes off a front-running victory in the Prix Guillaume d'Ornano, and Tanaka pointed to the start as a key factor again, "The break will be crucial." While Alohi Alii has not always been a sharp barrier horse, the trainer added, "He's improved since his last run, so I think he can get forward more comfortably this time."

As for tactics, Tanaka noted, "We'll work out the strategy with Christophe Lemaire and do our best." With a prime gate to work from, Alohi Alii will aim to shock the racing world on the grandest stage.