Europe’s number one sprinter Lethal Force will run in the Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest (1300m) in France next month before a decision is made on whether he will come to Australia for the 2013 Spring Racing Carnival.

Lethal Force claimed the mantle of leading European sprinter with his impressive victories in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1207m) and July Cup (1270m) and connections are now eyeing off the riches available in the sprint races in Melbourne this spring.

Trainer Clive Cox told Racing Ahead on Radio Sports National that connections were strongly considering making the trip to Australia but will wait until Lethal Force runs in France before a final decision is made.

“That would be our first intended step from here, but as long as that all goes well then we’d have time for a healthy freshen up before considering heading over,” Cox said.

“I admire the way you guys run your racing and the prizemoney clearly is very much better than it is in the UK at the moment.

“It’s obviously a long way to come and obviously the horse’s wellbeing is key to making any decisions, but at this moment in time we are giving it every possible consideration and are keen to give it a go.”

The Group 1 $1 million Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on October 25 and the Patinack Farm Classic (1200m) at Flemington on November 9 are the two obvious targets for the Dark Angel four-year-old.

The Patinack Farm Classic, which is run down the Flemington straight, would appear to suit Lethal Force more than the Manikato, as the tight turning Moonee Valley circuit could prove difficult for a European-based horse who is accustomed to the long straights and opening running on offer at racecourses in Great Britain.