Treve has taken another step in her bid to win the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe for an unprecedented third time, beating Flintshire in the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud.

In a repeat of last season's Arc result, the Criquette Head-Maarek-trained mare posted her fifth Group One victory on Sunday when she cruised up to Flinstshire in the straight and went on to win by 1-1/4 lengths.

Treve will now have a break until the Prix Vermeille at Longchamp on September 13, three weeks before the Arc.

"It just shows she's as good as ever or better than ever because it was a very impressive performance on ground that was certainly quicker than ideal," Harry Herbert, racing advisor to owners Al Shaqab Racing, said.

"She was a little bit free, but Thierry (Jarnet) got her beautifully settled and she's just a champion.

"We hope now the plan can be executed. We're halfway through the plan."

Head-Maarek was understandably delighted with the latest superb display from her stable star.

"I'm delighted as Flintshire is a very good horse. It's just a dream," she said.

"She's a good filly. We don't know what she's worth really."

Jarnet said although the firm ground was against Treve, it made little difference.

"The ground was a little bit too firm for her, but it is said that the good horses will go on any ground," he said.

"She quickened progressively without getting in the way of anyone. The mare was in great form, she is brilliant."

Treve is as short as 2-1 to win the Arc with Golden Horn and Jack Hobbs at 5-1 to 8-1 respectively.