Cracksman is still not certain to line up in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe with rain forecast in Paris on the eve of Europe's most prestigious race.

Already a winner at ParisLongchamp this season in the Prix Ganay, the John Gosden-trained Cracksman was then made to work hard in the Coronation Cup and was beaten at Royal Ascot.

"No one has spoken to me to say that they have walked the course as yet," owner Anthony Oppenheimer said.

"I'm told the ground is good at the moment, but I've also been told that it is fast.

"There has been a change in the forecast which suggests there will be rain on Saturday evening and Sunday, but quite how much will fall is unclear.

"It depends if it will be a few millimetres or quite a lot of rain. In either case it is leaving it late.

"I know about the strip of fresh ground that has been saved for Sunday, but I can't help wondering how wide it is and if everyone will make a beeline for it.

"We're just going to have to wait and see for a bit longer, I'm afraid."

Should Cracksman miss the Arc, he is expected to defend his crown in the Champion Stakes at Ascot on October 20, in what would be his final racecourse appearance.