By Rishi Persad BBC Sport in Paris

Longchamp is a magnificent course - and I say that having visited some of the finest courses around the world.

Christophe Soumillon rode Dalakhani to victory

It was my second time at the races in Paris but the first time I had been there for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

And it lived up to all my expectations.

I was fortunate enough to spend the day in the paddock, which always gives you a great insight into the tension and excitement of a big-race meeting.

The Longchamp paddock is quite something - it's a bit like a theatre with all manner of sub-plots going on and an eager audience watching on.

The number of people crammed into it made finding trainers and jockeys to interview hard work and, with a director bellowing down your ear, a nightmare.

It's so intense, and you can bump into anyone, be it Aidan O'Brien, the Aga Khan or even Omar Sharif.

The atmosphere is as a blend of Glorious Goodwood and Royal Ascot, taking the best parts from both events.

People are more relaxed here and take their time, be it over lunch or in the parade ring. That said, like Ascot they take pride in their haute couture and looking the part.

Longchamp day two round-up

My personal highlight has to be interviewing Lester Piggott moments before the Arc.

For me, Piggott is the greatest sportsman who has ever lived, competing over five decades and winning countless races here.

Plus, of course, he tipped High Chaparral to win the big race.

So did I, so we were both out of pocket, but at least I wasn't in bad company.

I'm yet to be convinced about Dalakhani.... I'm not sure he's had to prove himself under difficult conditions

I was convinced High Chaparral was going to win the Arc, but O'Brien explained later that his horse had a problem with his shoulder and found it difficult to run downhill and turn right.

Winning jockey Christophe Soumillon rode the race of his life on Dalakhani and fully deserved the tremendous reception he received back in the paddock.

As Clare Balding pointed out, he's another famous Belgian to add to the list - and one with a bright future ahead of him.

I'm yet to be convinced about Dalakhani. He's a good horse, but I'm not sure he's had to prove himself under difficult conditions.

I'd like to see him come back next year and defend his crown before he can be called a great Arc winner.