George Waud, a Hollywood producer turned racehorse owner, is pursuing an unlikely Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe victory with his colt Maltese Cross. As the second favourite for Europe's most prestigious race, Waud's journey from Tinseltown to the Bois de Boulogne captures the imagination of racing fans worldwide.
From Film Sets to Racecourses: Waud's Unconventional Path
Waud's story is far from typical. After 23 years in Los Angeles, where he climbed from the bottom rung of the movie industry to co-producer of the award-winning revival of Cabaret in London's West End, he now finds himself on the cusp of racing immortality. His colt, Maltese Cross, will line up against runners from racing's superpowers in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp on the first Sunday in October.
"No, I'm not a typical owner," Waud admits. "And for that reason, I'm making the most of it." His introduction to racing came at age six or seven, when his mother, then married to a trophy maker whose clients were deeply involved in the sport, took him to Newmarket. "There was just something about it I really, really liked," he recalls.
The Hollywood Years and a Rekindled Passion
In his mid-20s, Waud moved to California to break into movies. "I was working for a TV production company in Soho, but I really wanted to work in the movie business and there weren't a lot of prospects in London in the early '90s," he says. During his two decades in LA, racing remained a thread in the fabric of his life, though his focus was on film. It wasn't until later that the flame was fully rekindled, leading him to invest in racehorses.
Maltese Cross: A Contender for Glory
Maltese Cross has emerged as a serious contender for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, one of the richest and most prestigious races in the world. Trained by a top stable, the colt has shown remarkable form, earning him the status of second favourite. Waud's journey from Hollywood to the heart of French racing is a testament to his passion and perseverance.

How Waud's Story Compares to Other Owners
| Aspect | George Waud | Typical Arc Owner |
|---|---|---|
| Background | Hollywood producer | Hereditary racing family |
| Years in Racing | Recreational since childhood | Lifelong professional |
| Path to Arc | Self-made, late entry | Traditional breeding empire |
Key Takeaways from Waud's Arc Journey
- Passion over pedigree: Waud's love for racing, not family tradition, drives his success.
- Diverse experience: His film career brings a unique perspective to ownership.
- Underdog appeal: Maltese Cross represents the dream of every small owner.
- Global stage: The Arc attracts the best from Europe and beyond.
FAQ
Who is George Waud?
George Waud is a Hollywood producer and racehorse owner. He co-produced the award-winning revival of Cabaret in London's West End and now owns Maltese Cross, a leading contender for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
What is the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe?
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is Europe's most prestigious and valuable horse race, held annually at ParisLongchamp. It attracts top thoroughbreds from around the world.
How did Waud get into horse racing?
Waud was introduced to racing as a child when his mother took him to Newmarket. His passion was rekindled later in life, leading him to own racehorses.