Americain returns to racing tonight in the Listed Prix Right Royal at Saint-Cloud.

The 2010 Melbourne Cup winner will shoulder 61kg in the 3100m marathon which is timed for 1.00 am (AEST) on Friday night / Saturday morning.

Americain (6h Dynaformer – America by Arazi) is being set for the Ascot Gold Cup in the first half of the season and trainer Alain de Royer-Dupre expects him to be all the better for Friday’s pipe-opener.

“He’s been having an easy time since returning home and hasn’t been asked to do anything too strenuous,” he said.  “I expect him to run well but I’d be surprised if he wins.”

Americain is raced in partnership by Melbourne based owners Gerry Ryan and Kevin Bamford.  He will be ridden by Gerald Mosse who has just returned from a successful rising stint in Hong Kong.