The Great Paris Steeplechase takes place at the Hippodrome d'Auteuil. This is the premier event of the French racing season due to the severity of its course and the spectacular size of the purse awaiting the winner (over $324,000). The first race took place in Auteuil on 25 May 1874, under the name of Grand National of France. There have been many alterations over the years, but, since 1981 the course distance has been reduced to 5800 metres, with 23 obstacles in all.

The race itself is preceded by the Défilé des Drags, a parade of magnificent horse-drawn carriages from Foch Avenue right up to the Hippodrome d'Auteil.