Top French racehorse breeder dies

29 October 2001

Daniel Wildenstein, a Parisian art dealer who was a leading breeder and owner of racehorses, has died aged 84

Daniel Wildenstein, who was among the most influential owners of the horseworld in Europe during the last half century, has died at the age of 84.

Wildenstein was as controversial as he was successful with the handling of his bloodstock. He was the leading breeder and owner in France in all three divisions of the sport – flat, jumps and trotting.

Eight times champion owner in France, he won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe four times with Allez France, All Along, Sagace and Peintre Celebre. He was champion owner in Britain in 1976 when he won three of the fiveclassics with Flying Water (1,000 Guineas), Pawneese (Oaks) and Crow (St Leger).

He enjoyed considerable success with horses trained in England by Peter Walwyn and Henry Cecil, but split with both trainers in controversial circumstances.

Wildenstein’s best horse this season was the filly Aquarelliste, winner of the French Oaks and second to Sakhee in the Arc.

The massive Wildenstein racing empire is expected to continue as Ecurie Wildenstein, run by his son, Alec.

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